Ventilation information for all landlords
If you have responsibility as a landlord, whether in the social rented sector or private rental sector, we need your input to help to combat coronavirus and cascade the key message of the importance of good ventilation to your residents.
To support the health of your residents, there are several things you, as a landlord, should do to enable ventilation in and around your residents' homes:
- Ensure that all habitable rooms have functioning openable windows (including providing replacement keys where these have been misplaced/lost)
- Ensure that all bathrooms/kitchens have either functioning openable windows and/or (preferably both) appropriate functioning extract ventilation
- Ensure that tenants have clear instructions and understand how to operate ventilation and heating systems, and are advised on the best ways to achieve a healthy and economic balance of heating, ventilation and moisture production within the home
- Ensure that problems with damp are fully investigated and addressed promptly
Any planned or known works that might improve ventilation, should be made a priority - such as repairing broken safety catches on windows for those concerned about security or a fall hazard.
We are aware that some residents will be reticent to ventilate their homes in the winter temperatures, especially in the current climate of rising fuel costs. Therefore, we would recommend sharing the below options for support
There is advice available about how to keep warm and well. If your residents are having difficulty heating their homes, they may be able to claim financial and practical help. Residents should visit the Simple Energy Advice website for information about the help that is available or call their helpline on 0800 444202. Ofgem has further advice on what to do if they are struggling to pay their energy bills.
Depending on their circumstances and other criteria, they may also be eligible for support with their energy bills:=
- The Warm Home Discount supports low income and vulnerable households. Please see the Warm Home Discount webpages for further information on eligibility and how to apply for the scheme.
- The Cold Weather Payments and Winter Fuel Payment also help vulnerable households with their winter energy costs. Please check the Cold Weather Payment and the Winter Fuel Payment webpages for more information.
If they are in in financial distress during this time, they should talk to their energy supplier, who will be able to discuss personal circumstances and consider options to help, including reassessing, reducing or pausing payments.
Thank you for your support in spreading awareness on the importance of ventilation to your residents.