How can I improve my property’s energy efficiency and support my tenants?
With continued pressure on living costs, people are more concerned than ever about the cost of living and, in turn, the efficiency of the property they are living in. With this in mind, landlords are being urged to consider the energy efficiency of their property and, where possible, take steps to help improve the rating.
How efficient is your home?
Prior to undertaking any improvements, it’s important to determine how much energy is used in your home and how much it’s costing. Having an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement when renting a property and will also help you identify opportunities to improve your home’s energy efficiency. If you are unsure what your property’s EPC rating is you can take a look hereand also keep in mind the government’s proposal for new EPC regulations, listed here. This means that from 2025, if confirmed, your EPC rating will need to be a C or above for your rented property in order to let out legally. EPCs are valid for 10 years but may need updating if you have made changes to your home since the assessment. There are a number of simple steps that landlords can take to make their properties more energy efficient and help tenants to reduce their bills.
Simple tips to improve your EPC, lower energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint
Move to a Smart Meter: Upgrade your home to a smart meter; take this as an action to book one in. This will give more accurate costs for your tenants.
Draught-proof: As well as windows and doors, draught-proofing can also be done around letterboxes and keyholes. Draught-proofing kits are available online and at your local hardware shops.
Change to LED lighting: Switching old light bulbs for low-energy LEDs uses approximately 90% less energy and can last up to fifteen times as long.
Think about fabrics: Thicker curtains, carpets and rugs are better to help reduce heat loss from windows and floors.
Check the radiators: Ensure the radiators are bled yearly so they’re working effectively.
Renovating soon? Tips for long-term energy efficiency.
Upgrade your windows and doors: Think about double or triple glazing to improve heat retention.
Insulate: One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve a home’s energy efficiency is by fitting natural cavity or solid wall insulation. Insulation around the hot water tank and pipes is also worth undertaking.
Update your boiler: Upgrading your boiler can save energy.
Buy efficient appliances: when purchasing new appliances, check that the energy ratings are A+++.
Solar panels: Install PV Panels on your roof with battery storage and utilise the excess energy generated during the night.
Advice and support for tenants
Tenants have little control over their rental property energy efficiency, so any support you can offer will help keep your tenancy a happy one.
Are your tenants aware of the Government grants? Currently, these are:
Winter Fuel Payment: A £100 to £300 fuel payment for people born on or before October 5 1954.
Cold Weather Payment: A £25 payment for every seven days of very cold weather between November and March.
Warm Home Discount: A £140 discount for some people getting Pension Credit or some people in low-income households.
Household Support Fund: A funding package to help vulnerable households this winter. The local council will be able to offer advice and help on accessing the fund.=
