5 Ways to Make Your Rental Property More Sustainable
Environmental awareness is on the rise, not just for tenants but as a priority for landlords too. There's a definitive shift in the features that tenants are looking for in a rental property, and by adding those features into your own rental, you can boost your rental yields and attract higher quality tenants.
From sustainable heating options and insulation to energy-efficient appliances, this guide will inspire you with ways you can make your rental more sustainable and appealing to eco-focused tenants.
What Are The Rules For Rental Properties?
Over the years, the guidelines and recommendations for energy efficiency in the rental sector have changed considerably and there are now minimum standards that landlords need to meet. For most private landlords, properties have to meet a minimum standard of 'E' before it can be let, with fines of up to £5,000 if this rating isn't achieved. However, there are proposals for this to be upgraded to a 'C' by 2030, as part of the government's Warm Homes plan.
But it's not just regulations that should inspire landlords to make changes sooner rather than later. Tenants today want warm, comfortable homes that are cost-efficient to run and won't harm the planet. Many are looking to reduce their carbon footprints as much as they can and preserve the finite resources the Earth has. Surveys suggest that over 70% of residents consider the energy efficiency of their home as important, and that the level of importance has grown in the last year.
Install Renewable Power Systems
Renewable energy is an investment that can significantly reduce not only the utility costs of the property but also its carbon footprint. If your property is suitable, adding power sources like solar panels or an air source heat pump can create a greener property that will appeal to the environmentally conscious tenant.
Electric vehicle charging points are another valuable addition that can be installed for a relatively low cost but will make your property stand out in the listings. As the number of EV drivers grows, being ahead of the competition with a charging point on-site can help you to minimise void periods.
Insulate to Retain Warmth
An easy way to make your rental more sustainable is to upgrade the insulation, preventing heat loss through the roof, walls and windows. Older properties, in particular, tend to have very poor insulation which results in higher energy bills for tenants and wasted energy.
In addition to updating the insulation in the roof and walls (opting for cavity wall insulation if the property is suitable), you can also replace single-glazed windows for double or triple glazing which will keep outdoor noise outside and the warmth inside. Pipe lagging is another effective way to reduce heat loss from hot water pipes in the property, keeping the water hotter for longer and minimising the energy needed to heat the water.
Draught-Proof Gaps
Alongside insulating the property, be sure to tackle the smaller gaps where heat might be lost. Gaps around windows, doors, or between floorboards, can all add up to a draughty home that requires more energy to heat. Simply sealing these up with caulk or foam insulation tape will help to prevent cold air from entering the property, and warm air from getting out. Just make sure there's still adequate ventilation to prevent problems like damp and mould forming from condensation.
Add Eco-Tech
Devices that make it easier for tenants to track and monitor their energy use are a brilliant addition to any rental property because it shows that, as a landlord, you're keen to find ways to help tenants save money and make their lives easier. Smart thermostats, motion lighting, and voice hubs like Alexa or Google Assistant are all options to control different areas of the house and create a nicer, more comfortable living environment for residents that does double duty in reducing energy wastage.
Save on Water Waste
Water isn't something we tend to consider when finding ways to reduce our environmental impact, but it's another finite resource that we need to preserve. Installing low-flow showers and taps, and dual-flush toilets when they need replacing, can help to reduce the amount of water used in the property. It can also help to set up rainwater harvesting if the property has a garden, which will make maintaining the space less reliant on fresh water and is better for the plants too.
Making changes to create a more sustainable rental property goes beyond compliance with government regulations. It's a way to meet the demand from tenants who want to live in eco-friendlier homes while also reducing their bills. Green features like renewable power, energy-efficient appliances, and insulation all enhance the appeal of your buy-to-let and make your property stand out in a competitive market.
The header image is from a 2 bedroomed apartment available for rent December 2024 with fantastic balcony. For the full listing please click here
