Beat the Heat: Essential Home Cooling Checklist for England (2026)

Updated: 20 May 2026

Applies to: England

Stay Safe During Hot Weather

While warm weather is often welcomed, prolonged periods of heat can cause homes to become dangerously hot. Overheated homes can affect anyone, but they pose a greater risk to older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions.

This guide explains which homes are most likely to overheat, who is most vulnerable, and the practical steps you can take to keep your home cool and protect your health during hot weather.

Homes Most at Risk of Overheating

Some homes are more likely to trap heat than others. Properties at greater risk include:

• Top-floor flats, where heat naturally rises.
• Homes with windows that open on only one side, limiting airflow and ventilation.
• Properties with little or no external shading, such as shutters, awnings, or trees.
• Homes without curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight.
• Properties with large east-, west-, or south-facing windows exposed to the sun.
• Homes located in densely built urban areas with limited green space.
• Highly insulated or energy-efficient homes that retain heat during the summer months.
• Homes with inefficient appliances or poorly insulated hot water systems that generate additional heat.
• Properties where windows have restricted opening due to safety locks or catches.

Who Is Most Vulnerable During Hot Weather?

Although anyone can be affected by extreme heat, some groups face a higher risk of heat-related illness.

These include:

• Older adults aged 65 and over.
• Babies and children aged five and under.
• People living alone or who are socially isolated.
• Individuals with long-term medical conditions, especially heart or respiratory diseases.
• Pregnant women.
• People taking medications that affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Individuals who rely on others for daily care.
• People living with dementia, mental health conditions, or those affected by alcohol or substance misuse.
• People who remain at home during the hottest hours of the day, such as home workers and young children.

How to Prepare Your Home Before Hot Weather

When a heatwave is forecast, preparing your home in advance can help reduce indoor temperatures.

Consider the following:

• Install curtains, blackout blinds, or external shutters to block direct sunlight.
• If your home has a mechanical ventilation system, ensure it is switched on and set to summer mode if available.
• Check that refrigerators, freezers, and electric fans are working properly.
• Store medications according to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature guidelines.
• If renovating or improving your home, ask installers about measures that reduce summer overheating.
• Plant trees, shrubs, or climbing plants outside to provide natural shade, particularly around south-facing windows.
• Keep indoor plants where appropriate, as they may help improve indoor comfort.

How to Keep Your Home Cool During Hot Weather

When temperatures rise, these simple measures can help keep your home cooler:

• Close curtains or blinds during the hottest part of the day.
• Open windows when outdoor temperatures become cooler, particularly overnight, to improve airflow.
• Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the property where possible.
• Use electric fans when indoor temperatures are below 35°C. Avoid directing the airflow continuously at your body, as this may increase dehydration.
• Switch off heating systems.
• Turn off lights and electrical appliances when they are not needed to reduce heat generation.
• Cook during cooler times of the day whenever possible.
• Spend time in the coolest room in your home, particularly when sleeping.
• If your home remains very hot, consider visiting cooler public places such as libraries, supermarkets, shopping centres, or places of worship, provided it is safe to travel.

Where to Get Help

If you or someone you know begins to feel unwell during hot weather, seek advice promptly.

Reliable sources of health information include:

• NHS guidance on heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• NHS advice on sun safety and sunscreen.
• Government “Beat the Heat” guidance.

Support for Keeping Your Home Cool

Depending on your housing situation, support may be available.

If You Live in Social Housing

You may be able to receive assistance from:

• Your local council.
• Your housing association or social housing provider.
• Your social letting agency.
• A Home Improvement Agency.
• First Stop Care Advice.
• Citizens Advice.

If You Own Your Home

Homeowners may be eligible for advice and practical support through accredited Home Improvement Agencies or First Stop Care Advice services.

If You Rent Privately

Private tenants can seek support from:

• Their local council.
• Their landlord.
• Their social letting agency (where applicable).
• Citizens Advice.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for hot weather before temperatures rise can help protect both your health and your home. Simple actions such as improving ventilation, reducing direct sunlight, and staying informed can significantly reduce the risk of overheating.

If you are caring for an older person, young child, or someone with a long-term health condition, check on them regularly during periods of extreme heat and encourage them to stay cool and well hydrated.

A little preparation today can make a big difference when temperatures soar.

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