Landlords: How to Make Your Property More Energy-Efficient

With the importance of tackling climate change ever growing, and a new generation of tenants becoming increasingly eco-aware, it has never been a more important time for you as a landlord to start boosting the energy efficiency of your rental property. Not only is it a good move for the environment, it will also help you attract and retain good tenants.

Energy efficient properties are becoming more and more attractive to tenants, not least because of the money-saving benefits associated with them. There are also legal considerations for landlords where energy efficiency is concerned too.

The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 require a minimum level of energy efficiency for privately rented properties in England and Wales. As of April 1 2020, landlords of privately rented property in England and Wales have been required to make sure their properties reach a minimum of an E-rating for energy performance. This means that landlords cannot legally let a property if the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows a rating below an E.

So, the leading question: how as a landlord can you make your property energy efficient enough, both to comply with the law, and to attract long term tenants? Let’s take a look at five top ways of doing just that.

1.     Install double glazing

Because a great deal of heat is lost through doors and windows, installing modern double glazing is a wise move. Double glazing will reduce heat loss, making it easier and less costly to keep warm. It also has the added benefit of reducing noise pollution, ideal if your property is located on a main road or close to a railway line for example. Whilst replacing wooden framed windows and doors with good quality uPVC glazing can be quite pricey, it will help to save money in the long term, not just in regard to energy efficiency, but also when it comes to maintenance.

2.     Upgrade your boiler

Older boilers do not benefit from today’s energy efficiency standards. They can also be troublesome for tenants, resulting in frustrations for them, as well as continued callouts and expense for you. Modern combination boilers are designed for premium efficiency, boosting your property’s EPC rating and reducing heating bills. Whilst installing a new boiler can prove a fair expense, it can pay dividends in the long term.

3.     Add draught proofing

Windows and doors that lack good sealing will inevitably let in cold air, and allow warm air to escape. Common areas that are prone to draughts other than windows and doors include under window sills, letter boxes, keyholes, cat flaps, loft hatches, chimneys and airing cupboards. Attention will need to be paid to any draught inlets if you are going to improve the energy efficiency of your rental property.

4.     Make the move to LED lighting

LED lighting is way more energy efficient than traditional light bulbs. Making the switch will help reduce energy consumption, without any need for compromise on lighting quality. LEDs have a longer lifespan than regular light bulbs, so that’s a positive on maintenance front too.

5.     Install smart heating controls and meters

Thermostatic controls for radiators and central heating are great for helping tenants conserve energy by using only the heat that’s actually required. Smart thermostats put the power in the hands of the user by allowing full control from a smart device or voice assistant. Smart meters allow tenants to see how much energy they are using and what costs they are accumulating, making for a great incentive to be more energy efficient. Ask your energy supplier to install a smart meter if you don’t already have one.

You could also think about switching energy provider and perhaps switching to a green supplier such as OVO Energy, Green Network Energy, Green Star Energy or Ecotricity, all of which offer cheaper green energy deals. Always do your research to find the best energy supplier for landlords.

Property management services with an added advantage

If you are a landlord looking to place your property in the hands of a property management services company, why not consider homes2let? As well as a fully managed service for landlords, we also offer guaranteed rent, even during void periods. Let your property to local authority tenants via our scheme and you’ll never have to worry about the day to day aspects of being a landlord, or about chasing rental payments.

Get in touch today to learn more about how our Croydon based property management services could transform your life as a landlord.