Action first
How to cool a flat
Short answer
Shade the sunniest glass, reduce heat made indoors and use safe ventilation when outside becomes cooler.
What to do
- ✓Prioritise west- and south-facing windows.
- ✓Use the coolest room as a daytime refuge.
- ✓Coordinate cross-ventilation only where security and fire safety allow.
- ✓Use shared cooler spaces if the flat remains unsafe.
Why it works
This advice follows UK Health Security Agency guidance and the underlying principles of solar gain and single-sided ventilation.
Important exceptions
Safety, health, weather and the design of your home can change what is appropriate. Stop if an action makes conditions worse.
Related guides
Sources & evidence
Reviewed 2026-08-21
- UK Health Security Agency: Beat the heat: keep cool at home checklist ↗
Supports: Shading, ventilation, reducing indoor heat and protecting people at higher risk.
official guidance · Accessed 2026-08-21