your home guide for autumn and winter

Heating your home can be harder during colder months, especially with rising costs

Here are some simple ways to stay warm and save energy:

• Set your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C.
• Use radiator valves to heat the rooms you use most.
• Lower the flow temperature on your boiler to help it run better.
• Set heating timers so it only comes on when you need it.
• Take regular meter readings to keep bills accurate.
• Open curtains during the day to let in warmth, and close them at night to keep heat in.
• Wash clothes at lower temperatures to save energy.
• Keep radiators clear of furniture and clothes so heat can spread.
• Use LED bulbs and unplug devices when not in use.

Prevent damp and mould:

• Open windows when cooking or showering.
• Use extractor fans and trickle vents if you have them.
• Wipe away condensation from windows and walls.
• Dry clothes outside if you can.
• Move furniture away from walls to help air flow.
• Clean small patches of mould safely.

Need help? Call 0300 1311 999 or email hello@believehousing.co.uk.

Get ready for colder weather:

• If it is safe, clear gutters and downpipes.
• Sweep leaves from paths and driveways.
• Cover or store garden furniture.
• Protect outdoor taps with insulation covers.
• Secure anything that could blow away in strong winds.

You may be eligible for support with your heating costs:

Cold Weather Payment – You may get this if you receive certain benefits and the weather stays at 0°C or below for seven days. It is paid automatically so you do not need to apply.

Warm Home Discount – You could get £150 off your energy bill if you receive Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits. You do not need to apply, but make sure your energy supplier has your correct details.

Winter Fuel Payment – If you were born before 22 September 1959, you could get between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs. Most people receive this payment automatically in November or December. If you do not, you can apply:

Online at the government website, by calling 0800 731 0160, or by post: Winter Fuel Payment Centre, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 1LR.

The deadline for applying is 31 March 2026.

Need more support?
Visit gov.uk for advice or speak to your energy supplier or Citizens Advice to check you are on the right tariff and getting the help you need.

You can also contact us for free, confidential money advice by calling 0300 1311 999 or emailing hello@believehousing.co.uk

It is great to spend time with family and friends, but please think about your neighbours. If you are planning a party:

• Let neighbours know your plans and when the party is likely to end.
• Keep the number of guests reasonable.
• Ask guests to park considerately and avoid blocking driveways, access routes or dropped kerbs.
• Keep the noise down, especially later in the evening.
• Finish the gathering at the time you said and remind guests to be respectful when leaving.
• Tidy up decorations and store rubbish responsibly. Only put bins out on your collection day.

If you are out trick-or-treating:

• Only visit homes with decorations.
• Remember, not everyone wants visitors, and costumes can be scary for some.

On Bonfire Night:

• It is safest to attend an organised Bonfire Night display.
• If you see any piles of rubbish that could be used for unsafe fires, please report them to Durham County Council by calling 03000 260 000 or reporting online through their website.
• You can also find advice about staying safe around fireworks on the council’s website.