A LANDLORD is urging its tenants to find out if they qualify for a discount on their energy bills.

Festival Housing, which has a base in Malvern, is promoting the Government’s Warm Home Discount Scheme that could save residents £135.

The group, which manages more than 9,000 homes in Worcestershire and Herefordshire, says the deadline for applications is fast approaching.

“The Warm Home Discount Scheme is aimed at helping people on low incomes or vulnerable customers with their gas and electricity bills but many people are not aware of it and do not think that they qualify,” said Karen Adam, Festival’s home energy adviser.

“It is run by the energy firms and each company has different criteria and closing dates for applications. We want our customers to contact their suppliers as soon as possible to find out whether they can get this valuable rebate, which will help keep bills lower during the winter months.

“If you are a pensioner eligible for the Warm Home Discount, the Department for Work and Pensions tries to make sure that you get the money automatically, but if you missed out, you can ask for the discount directly from your supplier.”

She said others who may be eligible include those on a low income, have a disability or long-term illness, or children.

British Gas says anyone on Jobseekers’ Allowance or Income Support will qualify.

British Gas and Scottish Power close their schemes on Friday, January 31.