This Fair Usage Policy outlines the expectations and guidelines for the reasonable use of utilities (electricity, gas, and water) within the residential flats. It is designed to ensure that all residents can enjoy comfortable living while maintaining a sustainable and equitable approach to resource usage.

Please refer to Ofgem and Ofwat published Typical Domestic Consumption Values as a guide for what constitutes typical utility usage across the UK. These figures are based on average consumption by property type and number of residents and are intended to help you understand what is generally considered fair and reasonable usage. While these values serve as a reference point, we assess utility usage on a case-by-case basis.

1. Electricity

1.1 Reasonable Consumption

Residents are expected to use electricity in a manner that reflects typical household consumption. Usage should not exceed average household levels for residential purposes. Excessive usage, particularly through the use of high-consumption appliances (e.g., space heaters, air conditioning units, industrial equipment), will be subject to review. 

1.2 Electricity Energy-Efficient Practices

• Switching off lights when not in use. 

• Using energy-efficient bulbs and appliances. 

• Avoiding overuse of electrical heating systems. 

• Unplugging electronics when not in use to prevent standby power consumption. 

1.3 Appliances

Residents should ensure that electrical appliances are used responsibly, and appliances should not be used for purposes beyond their intended function.

2. Gas Usage

2.1 Reasonable Consumption

Gas usage should be kept within typical residential levels. Excessive gas consumption, especially in non-typical situations, may result in additional charges or an assessment of the gas usage patterns.

2.2 Heating and Hot Water

Residents should use gas-based heating and hot water systems efficiently, ensuring thermostats are set to a reasonable temperature. Residents are encouraged to avoid excessive heating or hot water usage to maintain sustainability and reduce environmental impact.

2.3 Appliance Safety

Residents are required to ensure that gas appliances (such as cookers, ovens, and heating systems) are used safely and regularly maintained according to manufacturers’ instructions. Malfunctions or suspected gas leaks should be reported immediately. 

3. Water Usage 

3.1 Reasonable Consumption 

Water usage should be kept to reasonable levels. Excessive water usage, such as long showers, running taps unnecessarily, or wastage through leaks, is discouraged. 

3.2 Water-Saving Practices

Residents are encouraged to adopt water-saving practices, such as: 

• Taking shorter showers.

• Using water-efficient taps, showers, and appliances. 

• Fixing leaks promptly. 

• Running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads only. 

• Turning off taps when not in use (e.g., while brushing teeth). 

3.3 Appliance Usage

All water-using appliances should be used efficiently, and residents are responsible for ensuring that appliances (e.g., washing machines, dishwashers) are maintained and used correctly.

4. Monitoring and Fair Usage Reviews

4.1 Utility monitoring

The landlord or property management may periodically monitor utility usage to ensure fair consumption. In case of unusually high usage, residents will be contacted to discuss the situation and may be required to adjust their usage accordingly. 

4.2 Excessive Usage

If any resident’s usage exceeds reasonable levels as determined by the landlord or utility provider, the resident may be required to pay additional charges for excessive usage. Continuous or unexplained high usage may lead to a review of the resident’s usage patterns and further action, such as fines or adjustments to billing.

5. Responsibility for Utility Bills  

5.1 Payment of Bills 

Residents are responsible for paying their utility bills on time, which include electricity, gas, and water. If utilities are provided as part of the rental agreement, fair usage will be assessed, and any charges exceeding typical consumption will be passed on to the resident.

5.2 Shared Utility Areas

Where utilities are shared between flats (e.g., communal heating systems or shared water meters), the landlord will ensure fair distribution of costs, and residents will be charged according to their proportional usage. 

6. Environmental Impact 

6.1 Sustainability

Residents are encouraged to adopt practices that reduce their environmental impact, including reducing energy consumption, limiting water waste, and avoiding unnecessary gas usage. 

6.2 Compliance with Regulations

All residents must comply with local and national regulations regarding utility usage, including energy efficiency standards and water conservation practices.

7. Exceptions and Special Circumstances 

7.1 Special Requirements 

If a resident has special requirements that lead to higher-than-average utility usage (e.g., medical conditions requiring extra heating or cooling), they should inform the property management in advance. Reasonable accommodations will be made in such cases, where possible.

8. Conclusion 

This Fair Usage Policy is intended to create a comfortable and sustainable living environment for all residents, ensuring that utilities are used responsibly and efficiently. All residents are expected to adhere to the principles of reasonable consumption and conservation outlined in this policy.