The effects of living in a cold house go far beyond discomfort. Each winter, thousands of people across England struggle to keep their homes warm. Many are unaware of the serious health, financial, and social consequences that cold living conditions can bring. Cold homes increase illness, drive hospital admissions, and worsen mental wellbeing. Together, these impacts place significant strain on individuals, communities, and the NHS.
Recent research by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) found that over 700,000 homes in England are officially assessed as excessively cold. More than half a million of these are owner-occupied, with a further 200,000 privately rented. The coldest homes, often rated EPC band F or G, are estimated to cost the NHS around £540 million each year in treating illnesses linked to cold living conditions.
That’s just the start. When wider costs such as lost productivity, social care, and mental health impacts are included, the picture becomes far more serious. As far back as 2016, the total societal cost of cold homes was estimated at £15 billion a year.
According to the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, treating pensioners living in cold, damp homes could cost up to £1.5 billion annually. Around 2.3 million older people live in poor housing conditions, leaving them particularly vulnerable to illness during the colder months.
While social housing has improved, owner-occupied and privately rented homes remain the biggest contributors to cold related health risk and the largest opportunity for change.
The Effects of Living in a Cold House on Health
Cold homes are not just uncomfortable. They are dangerous. Exposure to low indoor temperatures can:
- Trigger respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Increase cardiovascular risks. The body has to work harder to stay warm, which places additional strain on the heart.
- Exacerbate existing conditions, particularly in older adults and those with chronic illnesses.
- Worsen mental health. Anxiety, stress, and low mood are all linked to living in cold, damp, or mouldy environments.
In the UK, these effects are reflected in the rise of winter mortality and the pressure placed on local health services every year.
Reducing the Health Effects of Cold Homes Through Retrofitting
Retrofitting, upgrading a home to be more energy efficient, is one of the most effective ways to reduce health risks. It can also cut costs for both households and the NHS.
Creating Warmer Homes to Reduce the Effects of Cold Living Conditions
Upgrading insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures. This prevents the cold, damp conditions that lead to mould and respiratory illness.
Research shows that improving insulation, heating, and ventilation can reduce emergency respiratory hospital admissions by up to 30%, particularly among older adults.
Improving Indoor Air Quality in Cold Homes
Switching from gas to electric appliances such as heat pumps and induction cookers removes indoor combustion pollutants, which are linked to respiratory problems.
Replacing gas cookers alone in 14 million homes could save the NHS around £170 million over 25 years, while a broader rollout of electric heating could add another £300-£900 million in savings.
Protecting Heart Health in Cold and Poorly Insulated Homes
Better insulated homes stay warmer for longer, preventing the sudden drops in indoor temperature that put extra pressure on the heart.
Retrofitted homes have shown 25-30% fewer cardiovascular related hospital admissions, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Mental Wellbeing and the Effects of Living in a Cold Home
Living in a warm, dry, comfortable home provides more than physical comfort. It reduces anxiety and improves quality of life.
Residents of retrofitted homes consistently report:
- Lower Stress
- Fewer GP visits
- Improved overall wellbeing
Fewer Emergency Admissions
Among older people, retrofitted homes have been linked to a 57% reduction in emergency respiratory admissions. Overall hospital admissions fall by 39%, particularly when heating, ventilation, and safety measures are improved together.
Preventing the Long-Term Effects of Living in a Cold House
Retrofitting is one of the most effective ways to reduce the long-term effects of living in a cold home, especially during the colder months. It improves comfort, protects vulnerable people, especially the elderly and families with young children, and helps reduce long-term healthcare costs.
For homeowners, even small improvements such as loft insulation, draught-proofing, or upgrading to a more efficient heating source can make a meaningful impact.
How Lendology Helps Homeowners Take the First Step
At Lendology, we work with local councils to make these changes possible, helping homeowners access the right advice and support to improve their homes sustainably.
Because a warm, healthy home shouldn’t be a privilege, it should be a foundation for good health.
If you’re concerned about keeping your home warm and healthy this winter, find out how we can help. Learn more about Home Improvement Loans
We recommend that you carry out an independent retrofit assessment to find out which works are suitable for your home and budget.
