Flat-Living.co.uk Reducing costs
How cost-conscious is your block?
Most of us have been affected one way or another by the economic downturn – we are certainly less
inclined to use our credit cards than we were a few years ago and we are all looking for ways to
cut back on the bills, especially with the rise in VAT looming. Here are some suggestions that could help RMCs and leaseholders keep their costs down.
UTILITY BILLS
When you add up all the bills for electricity, gas, telephone calls and water, they account for a considerable proportion of the monthly outgoings. It is always worth keeping an eye on what you are paying for utilities. Consider changing provider if another company can offer a better deal. You will not notice any difference in your supply but customer service and response times to queries can vary enormously between utility companies. Ask around – can friends or family recommend their supplier in terms of cost and service? Changing provider is not a complex process and is quickly completed, but do expect a call to ask you why you are moving to a different company. If you pay your bills by direct debit you will need to contact your bank to cancel your existing arrangement and set up a new one.
GAS AND ELECTRICITY Consider using the same provider for gas and electricity - a dual
fuel discount may be available. Look out for special offers: some companies offer additional incentives such as ‘Nectar’ points to new customers which you can then use to pay for supermarket or high street items.
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Some quick wins are: • Use low energy light bulbs, switch off lights and don’t leave appliances such as TVs and computers on standby.
• Invest in an energy monitor or employ an electrician to do an energy survey of your home for you to identify which appliances use the most electricity.
• When buying new appliances choose those that are A- or B-rated for energy efficiency.
• If you live in an older block and have open fires, use them, if you have somewhere to store the fuel. A few logs will keep you warm and save you turning up the central heating – but don’t forget to get the chimneys swept if you haven’t lit a fire for a while. Check first that you do not live in an area that restricts the use of solid fuels or a smoke free zone.
• If your hot water tank isn’t lagged, do it this weekend. It is cheap and easy and will save you money.
• Invest in fully lined curtains and insulation around doors and windows – this will help keep the heating bills down if you don’t have double-glazing.
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