Lack of control over energy bills is causing renters to feel helpless at home

RENTERS admitted they didn't consider bill costs before moving in; leaving 76% shocked and stung by the fees.

A poll of 2,000 tenants found 54% rushed through the process to move in as soon as possible, prioritising location over the heating and energy costs. But now 46% feel they have no control over their bills, leaving 34% cutting back elsewhere to afford them and 17% feeling helpless at home. And 24% have even considered moving elsewhere due to the costs getting out of control.

Prior to picking up the keys, 51% didn't get much or any information from the landlord about how much they would likely have to pay for these essentials.

What's more, 21% are contractually prohibited from changing their energy supplier, with nearly half not realising this when they signed their lease.

This has left 36% taking matters into their own hands by carrying out tasks to make their property more energy efficient; despite potentially breaking their tenancy agreements.

Paul White, Commercial Director at DIY store B&Q, which commissioned the research, said:- "Renters and homeowners alike can feel that they are unable to take control of their household bills. 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. Of those looking to make small but effective changes, there are a few low cost solutions that won't 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. 25% have insulated pipes and 23% went as far and insulating the loft.

53% of renters surveyed wanted to make these changes to stop energy bills spiralling out of control, and 44% wanted to address issues with heating and cooling certain areas of the home. But for 35 per cent, their DIY was driven by an eagerness to reduce their environmental impact.

The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found that there's more renters can do to protect themselves before moving into new homes. In fact 69% aren't likely to check the age of appliances, while 67% doubt they will inspect for draughts. 63% are even unlikely to check the EPC rating of the next potential property.

Paul White from B&Q added:- "At B&Q 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 1st 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."

Anchor aweigh: Mayor celebrates as construction underway on 1st new Mersey Ferry in 60 years

MAYOR Steve Rotheram today announced construction is underway on the 1st new world famous Mersey Ferry in more than 60 years.

The landmark moment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the iconic ferries, which have been sailing on the River Mersey for more than 800 years. The new vessel will ensure Mersey Ferries remains a proud part of Liverpool City Region's visitor attractions.

Following the all-important steel cutting, construction is now underway at:- APCL's Cammell Laird's Birkenhead facility, where the state-of-the-art Mersey Ferry is being built.

The hull is beginning to take shape thanks to more than 90,000 metres of welding, and a total of 327 tonnes of steel, creating the backbone of the impressive vessel.

From platers to welders, 25 apprentices are investing a total of 17,000 hours on the history-making project and are embracing the unique opportunity to be a part of the Mersey Ferries legacy.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, said:- "The world-famous Mersey Ferry has inspired books and songs and has been making waves in our City Region for more than 100 years. Today, we begin its next chapter. As a staple of our heritage, the ferry has connected millions of people over its 800 year history, many of whom will remember the 1st time they hopped aboard. We want future generations to experience that same feeling, which is why we're investing in a new boat and why we've developed a 20-year strategy to keep the Mersey Ferries on the water for many more years to come."

David McGinley, CEO of APCL Group added:- "Cammell Laird has a long history of supporting Mersey Ferries, our facility has built 15 of the vessels, dating back to 1836, as well as helping to maintain the current fleet. This new project will be built by apprentices working alongside our highly- experienced teams to create a state-of-the-art vessel that we will all be able to enjoy for decades to come. Cammell Laird is excited to be working with the team and to bring to life a project that has been many years in the making, which will further cement our history together."

The announcement follows last month's unveiling of the 1st images showing what passengers can expect when they embark on the impressive new boat.

Expected to set sail by summer 2026, the new Mersey Ferry will feature state of the art navigation and steering systems as well as providing improved spaces for events and functions.

The new ferry is designed to offer a world-class experience to both everyday passengers and eventgoers thanks to large, open plan decks and smaller, more intimate event spaces for corporate functions and private parties, alongside new regular seasonal cruises.

A virtual walkthrough; accessible on the Mersey Ferries website or at a:- 'Future of the Ferries' exhibition in situ at Seacombe Terminal; allows passengers to experience the new high-spec Ferry, while being able to immerse themselves in the luxurious, comfortable surroundings and picture themselves enjoying a cruise while taking in the unique views across the Mersey that only the Ferries can offer.

The new vessel's design will honour the rich heritage of the Mersey Ferries, with the exterior retaining the traditional livery and colours of the iconic fleet, while the interiors boast a stylish, contemporary theme.

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