Extreme heat has arrived in the UK. In July 2022, temperatures over 40ºC were registered for the first time.

This blog explores effective, low-effort, low-cost, and rapidly-deployable solutions to keep homes cool during a UK heatwave. Most of these solutions are also landlord-friendly!

HEAD TO THE SOLUTIONS

At the beginning of my career, I developed an expertise in improving the performance of new buildings in heat waves. I worked with architects to refine the form and materials of their designs. I specified awnings, designed external shutters and selected specialist glazing. All interesting, but pretty unhelpful ideas when you live in a rented flat with an unengaged landlord and there’s a major heatwave predicted next week. We need solutions that can be implemented tomorrow.

HEAD TO THE SOLUTIONS

Climate experts predict heatwaves will become fiercer, longer and more regular. According to Oxford University Scientists, The UK is ‘dangerously unprepared’.

In the UK, extreme heat causes discomfort and, unfortunately, death. Regulatory measures exist to limit overheating in new buildings. But what about the homes the rest of us live in? How will you help your neighbour? In the UK, the worst effects will be felt in the urban areas of South East England.

HEAD TO THE SOLUTIONS

I’m a chartered engineer and chartered environmentalist. Over the last 15 years, I’ve seen my efforts to improve summertime environmental performance realised in tens of new and refurbished building projects in London and the Southeast across different building typologies - from social housing to art galleries, museums, restaurants, and theatres. I live in a terraced house in North East London with my two young kids and wife, who has just enough patience to tolerate my experimentation in applying temporary modifications to our home.