How to assess heating and energy costs before renting
Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026
Читать на русскомStart with the property and tenancy agreement
Before viewing, request the EPC, the type of heating and an exact list of included bills. Establish who contracts with the energy supplier, where the meters are and whether the flat uses a communal heat network. “Heating included” does not explain whether hot water, electricity or usage above an agreed allowance is included.
Make a comparison table for each property covering rent, energy, council tax, water and broadband. Compare the same package of costs. An anonymised previous bill can help, but consider the former household size and habits: it is a guide rather than a promise about your consumption.
Read the EPC
An EPC rates energy efficiency from A to G and is normally valid for ten years ↗. Check its address, date, rating and recommendations. The government guide links to the official certificate search. Estimated costs use standard assumptions and do not replace a current supplier quotation.
At the viewing, look at windows, draughts, damp, controls, timers and radiators. Ask how to obtain hot water in summer and whether rooms can be controlled separately. For electric storage heaters, establish whether there is a suitable multi-rate meter and how overnight charging is set up.
Compare the tariff rather than the direct debit
Ask for the price per kWh, daily standing charge, tariff duration and early exit fee. A monthly direct debit spreads payments; it can be below actual consumption and leave a debt.
Ofgem explains how switching energy supplier works ↗. If you pay a supplier directly, check your options. With a communal heat network, switching the supplier serving an individual flat may not be possible, so obtain its tariff and billing arrangements before committing.
Record the start of your tenancy
On the day you receive the keys, photograph meter readings and serial numbers, retain your move-in date and send readings to the supplier. For a shared meter, get the allocation method in writing. An informal promise to “split it later” is inadequate when charges affect your budget.
Request the boiler and heating instructions and a contact for reporting faults. If the property cannot be heated properly, document the problem and notify the landlord. Buying an expensive portable heater does not resolve a building defect.