For many tenants, winter brings a familiar challenge: how to stay warm and comfortable without letting energy bills spiral out of control. This is particularly true in older rural homes and character properties, which may not always have the same insulation or modern systems as new builds.
With energy efficiency now at the top of many renters’ minds, it’s worth knowing what simple, cost-effective steps you can take this season. The good news is that even in period cottages or farmhouse-style rentals, small changes can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore budget-friendly draught-proofing ideas, explain how EPC ratings work, highlight which repairs your landlord is responsible for, and share essential seasonal maintenance checks. By the end, you’ll have a toolkit of practical steps to save money and stay warm this winter.
Related: Tenants Guide
Why Winter Bills Hit Tenants Harder in Older Homes
While every household feels the pinch of rising energy costs, tenants in older rural homes often face higher bills. Thick stone walls may keep homes cool in summer but make heating less efficient in winter. Single-glazed windows, open fireplaces, and traditional features can also add character, but they can let heat escape.
That’s why being proactive is key. Whether you rent a country cottage, a Victorian terrace, or a farmhouse conversion, these strategies can help you cut waste and save money without expensive upgrades.
Budget-Friendly Draught-Proofing Ideas
Draughts are one of the main reasons older homes feel chilly in winter. Unlike insulation, draught-proofing doesn’t require major work and is usually easy for tenants to do themselves. Better yet, it’s cheap and instantly effective.
Here are some simple fixes you can try:
- Door draught excluders: A classic “sausage dog” draught stopper works wonders for gaps under doors. You can also buy adhesive strips that seal edges without leaving marks.
- Chimney balloons: If your property has an open fireplace you don’t use, a chimney balloon or foam draught blocker can stop warm air escaping.
- Window film kits: These transparent plastic films shrink tightly across the glass when heated with a hairdryer. They’re inexpensive, removable, and great for single-glazed windows.
- Heavy curtains: Invest in lined or thermal curtains and close them as soon as the sun sets. For extra impact, use door curtains in draughty hallways.
- Rugs on wooden or stone floors: Bare floors look lovely in period homes but can be cold. Rugs provide insulation and make spaces feel cosier.
- Keyhole and letterbox covers: Small details matter. A simple brush cover for your letterbox and a keyhole cover can keep out surprising amounts of cold air.
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that basic draught-proofing could save an average household £45 per year. In older rural homes, the savings can be even greater, since draughts are often more widespread.
How EPC Ratings Work (And What They Mean for You)
Every rental property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This document grades the home’s efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also provides an estimate of energy costs and suggests improvements.
For tenants, understanding your EPC matters for three key reasons:
- Running costs: Homes with higher EPC ratings are usually cheaper to heat. Choosing a property with a C rating instead of an E could save you hundreds of pounds each year.
- Legal standards: Landlords are required to ensure their rental properties meet at least an EPC rating of E (with some exemptions). If your home is rated F or G, it may not be legally lettable.
- Negotiation power: If your EPC highlights easy improvements, like installing LED bulbs or loft insulation, you can use this information to start a constructive conversation with your landlord.
You can find your home’s EPC online at the government’s EPC register. Even if you can’t carry out upgrades yourself, knowing your rating helps you plan ahead and make smart choices about your energy use.
What You Can Reasonably Ask Your Landlord to Fix
Tenants aren’t responsible for making major energy upgrades — that falls to the landlord. But what’s reasonable to expect, and what isn’t?
Landlord obligations:
- Heating and hot water systems: Landlords must ensure boilers, radiators, and other heating systems are safe and working properly.
- Structural elements: They’re responsible for repairing walls, roofs, and windows if they’re letting in water or draughts due to damage.
- Appliances provided with the property: If your landlord supplied the oven, fridge, or washing machine, they must keep it in good working order.
- Minimum EPC standards: In most cases, landlords cannot legally rent out a home with an EPC rating below E.
Tenant responsibilities:
- Replacing lightbulbs and fuses.
- Using appliances and heating responsibly.
- Reporting problems promptly to prevent them from worsening.
Tip: If you notice an issue, for example, a boiler losing pressure or a window frame that no longer closes properly, report it in writing as soon as possible. Keeping records helps ensure repairs are addressed promptly.
Seasonal Maintenance Checks for Tenants
Alongside your landlord’s responsibilities, there are simple seasonal checks you can do to help keep bills down and prevent bigger issues. These don’t require technical expertise, just a bit of vigilance.
- Bleed radiators: If radiators are cold at the top, they may have trapped air. Bleeding them helps your heating system work more efficiently.
- Check boiler pressure: If your boiler has a pressure gauge, check it’s within the recommended range. Low pressure can make heating less effective.
- Look for damp: Cold corners, windows, and bathrooms are common places for mould in winter. Wipe away condensation and ventilate rooms to reduce moisture.
- Clear ventilation: Don’t block air vents or extractor fans. Proper ventilation helps prevent dampness while keeping the air fresh.
- Monitor meter readings: Keeping track of your energy usage helps you spot unusual spikes and avoid estimated bills.
These small steps help you take control and make sure your home runs as efficiently as possible.
Related: How to keep damp and mould out of your home
Everyday Energy-Saving Habits
Alongside draught-proofing and seasonal checks, everyday choices have a big impact on your bills. Here are some tried-and-tested habits:
- Turn down the thermostat by 1°C: This small change can save around £100 per year.
- Heat only the rooms you use: Close doors and switch off radiators in unused spaces.
- Wash clothes at 30°C: It’s just as effective for most laundry and uses less energy.
- Unplug devices: Chargers, TVs, and computers all use “phantom” energy when left on standby.
- Batch cook meals: Cooking larger portions and reheating later uses less energy overall.
- Use natural light: Open curtains in the day to let in warmth and brightness.
These habits are especially important in rural or older homes where structural upgrades may not be possible.
Planning Ahead for Next Winter
Even as you focus on getting through this winter, it pays to think ahead. If you’re considering moving, energy performance should be part of your checklist. A property with double glazing, modern heating, and a higher EPC rating may cost slightly more in rent but could save you significantly in monthly bills.
When viewing properties, ask:
- What’s the EPC rating?
- How old is the boiler, and when was it last serviced?
- Are windows single or double glazed?
- Is there loft or wall insulation?
At Country Properties, we understand that tenants want homes that balance charm and character with affordability and comfort. That’s why we’re committed to helping you find the right property, one that feels warm and welcoming all year round.
Conclusion
Winter bills don’t have to be overwhelming, even if you live in an older or rural rental home. With a mix of quick draught-proofing fixes, a solid understanding of your EPC rating, clear communication with your landlord, and simple seasonal checks, you can make a real difference to your comfort and your costs.
At Country Properties, we know that finding the right rental is about more than location, it’s about making sure your home works for your lifestyle and budget.
Browse our available rentals today and find a home that’s warm, efficient, and perfect for you.
