Over half of UK renters admit they didn't consider bill costs before moving in

Renters confessed that they overlooked bill costs before moving in, resulting in a whopping 76% being taken aback by the extra fees they're now facing.

A survey of 2,000 tenants revealed that 54% hurried through the process to move in as quickly as possible, prioritising location over heating and energy costs and now feel they have no control over bills.

Over a third are being made to cut back elsewhere to afford paying their leaving them feeling powerless at home. A quarter have even contemplated relocating due to escalating costs.

Before receiving the keys, 51% received little or no information from the landlord about the likely cost of these essentials. Moreover, 21% are contractually barred from changing their energy supplier, with nearly half unaware of this when they signed their lease.

As a result, 36% are taking matters into their own hands by undertaking tasks to make their property more energy efficient - despite potentially violating their tenancy agreements.

Paul White, commercial director at DIY store B&Q, which sponsored the research, commented: "The research shows tenants are taking matters into their own hands, trying to improve energy efficiency in their homes - even when rental agreements typically limit what they're allowed to change."

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He added: "Of those looking to make small but effective changes, there are a few low-cost solutions that are unlikely to breach rental agreements."

"Adding radiator reflectors to direct heat back into the room and using heavy curtains can help keep in warmth. These minor adjustments can make a real difference and provide renters some control over their energy costs, even if their property isn't perfectly insulated."

Of those who have made energy improvements around their rented home, 42% have bled the radiators, and 39% have installed draught seals around doors and windows.

However, according to the research there are still areas renters can look at to help improve energy costs. The research shows, 69% aren't likely to check the age of appliances, 67% doubt they will inspect for draughts and 63% are unlikely to check the EPC rating of the next potential property.

Paul White, from B&Q, added: "Renters and homeowners alike can feel that they are unable to take control of their household bills."

"We have plenty of energy efficiency solutions, from thermostatic controls to draught excluders, which can help make it easier for customers to control and reduce their energy use, and to keep their bills from becoming overwhelming."

"As a first port of call, I'd recommend visiting our Energy Savings hub at diy.com for free tips and advice."

"Here, people can also take advantage of our free Energy Saving Service, offering personalised advice on the steps they can take to improve the energy efficiency of their home."