Support Options for Renters Struggling with Energy Bills in England

If you're renting in England and struggling to keep up with rising energy bills, you're not alone. With costs increasing, many renters are looking for ways to get help paying essential gas and electricity bills. Whether bills are included in your rent or you pay suppliers directly, there are several government schemes and resources you can turn to for support.

Government Schemes for Energy Bill Support

There are national support schemes designed to help residents in England cover the cost of energy. Eligibility will depend on your circumstances, tenancy type, and whether your landlord or you are responsible for the bills.

Help for Those Paying Energy Suppliers Directly

• Energy Price Cap: Ofgem, the energy regulator, sets a price cap limiting how much suppliers can charge for default tariffs. This benefits most renters who pay suppliers directly. Learn more at the Ofgem Energy Price Cap page.
• Warm Home Discount Scheme: You could get £150 off your electricity bill if you meet criteria such as being on certain benefits or having a low income. The 2023/24 scheme applies automatically for most eligible households, but check your eligibility status with your supplier or via the official government page.
• Cold Weather Payments: If you receive certain benefits, you may get £25 per week during very cold spells. Find details on Cold Weather Payments.
• Winter Fuel Payment: For people born before 25 September 1957, you could receive between £250 and £600 to help with heating bills. See the Winter Fuel Payment details.

If you pay your energy supplier directly, contacting them early is crucial if you're falling behind. Most suppliers offer payment plans or hardship funds.

Help When Energy Bills Are Included in Rent

For renters whose energy bills are included in their rent (sometimes called "bills-included" tenancies), your landlord manages energy payments. You may not be eligible for certain discounts directly. However, you should:

• Ask your landlord if they are applying for schemes like the Warm Home Discount
• Check your tenancy agreement for terms on utility costs and increases
• Contact your local council for advice if you suspect costs are being unfairly passed on (Find your local council)

Discretionary and Crisis Support

If you're in severe financial difficulty, you may be able to access temporary help through:

• Household Support Fund: Many councils offer emergency vouchers or grants for energy through this fund. Each council has its own application process and eligibility requirements. Check the "Household Support Fund" on your local council's website (Find your council).
• Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP): If you get Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element), you can apply for a DHP if you're struggling with rent or bills. Find guidance and the Discretionary Housing Payment application form via government guidance.
  
  Practical example: A renter whose Universal Credit doesn't cover increased winter bills can apply to their council for a DHP. The council will assess your needs and may offer a short-term payment.

If You're at Risk of Disconnection

If you have debts to your energy supplier, it's important to know your rights:

• Suppliers cannot disconnect your energy if you have children under 16 living with you in England, or if certain medical conditions apply.
• Always contact your supplier to arrange a payment plan.
• If a supplier threatens to disconnect you or install a prepayment meter, contact Citizens Advice for immediate help.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Discretionary Housing Payment Form: Used if you're on Housing Benefit or Universal Credit and struggling with rent or bills. Usually available via your local council. Find an example and how to apply on the official DHP application form page.
  Practical example: You’ve lost some income, your benefit doesn’t cover your full rent, and you’re behind on gas payments. You fill in the DHP form via your council's website, explaining your hardship and energy costs.
• Household Support Fund Application: This is run directly through your local authority. Forms vary, but you typically apply through the council's "Crisis Support" page.
  Practical example: Your boiler breaks down in winter and you can't afford repairs or extra heating costs. You apply for emergency support through your council's Household Support Fund page.

Your Rights Under Tenancy Law

Energy charges, rights to challenge unfair costs, and repairs are all governed by housing law in England. The key legislation is the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. If you feel your landlord is charging you excessively for supplied energy, or not keeping the property warm, you can seek advice or make a formal complaint.

For disputes, especially about tenancy terms, unfair rent or charges, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential Property.

FAQ: Energy Bills and Support for Renters in England

1. Can my landlord increase my rent to cover higher energy bills?
   Your landlord can only increase your rent in line with your tenancy agreement and the law. They must give proper notice, and you can challenge increases you believe are unfair via the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
2. How can I check if I’m eligible for the Warm Home Discount?
   Most eligibility is based on receiving certain benefits or having a low income. For full details, visit the Warm Home Discount Scheme official page.
3. What should I do if my energy supplier threatens to cut me off?
   You should contact your supplier immediately to arrange a payment plan. If you are at risk of disconnection, reach out to Citizens Advice for support.
4. Is there emergency help if I can’t afford to heat my home?
   Yes, you can apply to your local council’s Household Support Fund or request a Discretionary Housing Payment if you meet the criteria.
5. What do I do if my landlord refuses to pass on government energy support?
   If your landlord receives a grant or discount intended for you, such as the Energy Bills Support Scheme, they must not keep it unfairly. Contact your local council or Citizens Advice for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Warm Home Discount Scheme (Government)
• Cold Weather Payment
• Winter Fuel Payment
• Citizens Advice: Paying Bills if You're a Tenant
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential
• Find Your Local Council

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1. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
2. Ofgem's Energy Price Cap
3. Official Warm Home Discount Guidance
4. Discretionary Housing Payment Official Form
5. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential Property

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