Housing condition survey cost £40,000

Via the www.rother.gov.uk website, the questioner, who claims to switch on the household hot water only once a week, said: "Energy-saving standards - I would just like to say that I live in fuel poverty.

"I switch the electric hot water on once per week. I turn the heating on when I can't stand the cold any longer. I use one light at a time and flush the loo twice per day.

"Does this qualify me for fuel poverty?

"I see in the local that 'housing research' Capital Project Management carried out a survey.

"Did they ask me?

"No.

"How much did CPJ charge for this masterpiece of work?"

The leader said: "The stock condition survey was procured in conjunction with Eastbourne and Hastings Councils to ensure value for money.

"Local authorities are required by government to undertake these surveys and the cost of the 2007 survey was 40,000.

"The properties that were surveyed were selected by computer at random. The chance of your property being selected was 1 in 48.

"It was a shame that we didn't know you wished to take part because many households declined.

"If you do not have a full heating system, there are grants for heating and insulation available from the government's Warm Front programme (tel. 0800 316 2814 for further details).

"Alternatively, if you are not Warm Front eligible, discount loft and wall insulation may be available from one of the utility companies, contact the Energy Efficiency Advice Centre on 0800 512 012 for more information.

"Unfortunately, whilst there is no help with paying your fuel bills, you can ensure you have full benefit entitlements by calling another Warm Front number (0800 072 9006)."