There is no denying the fact that being green is the in thing to be. Consumers across the UK are attempting to save both money and the climate by trying to reduce their carbon footprint. It makes sense that anyone looking at renting a home from a landlord is now more aware of green issues and considers the energy efficiency of a property when it comes to looking for a place to live.
For over two years, landlords have had a legal duty to show all prospective tenants the current Energy Performance Certificate score of the property they are interested in renting, on request. No longer can a landlord buy landlord insurance and just sit back. As more and more landlords try to make their property as attractive as possible to tenants by installing energy efficient products, competition in the sector escalates.
Renting from a landlord appeals to students and people who are looking to save money before jumping onto the property ladder. So it is obvious that the more money a landlord can save them with good energy efficiency, the more attractive the property will be. Possessing a good energy efficiency rating is something that is worth showing off to everyone who comes to view the property.
There are a few schemes which can help a landlord get a property improved as far as green credentials are concerned. One of the best is the boiler scrappage scheme which gives a £400 voucher to help with the cost of installing a boiler that will be G-Rated. Other ways of becoming greener include installing double glazing and getting both efficient and up to date insulation fitted. This should include the loft and the hot water tank. Replace worn out appliances with the most energy efficient products possible, this is easy to do as they all have their ratings displayed on them and maybe install a smart meter so that the tenants can monitor their energy usage.
Some local councils will offer grants for different home improvements but it depends on which area the property is in, so it’s worth giving the local housing team a call to see if any assistance is available. Making the home energy efficient does not just make the tenant happy, it can also help to get a better return on what is a big investment for any landlord.