There is no doubt that we are all going greener by the day, not with envy but with increasing eco-consciousness.
More and more of us are concerned about climate change – especially younger adults. As most landlords are all too well-aware, Government regulations are encouraging the Private Rented Sector (PRS) to become more energy efficient in the drive for Net Zero but there are straight commercial reasons for providing greener homes for tenants – they prefer them!
A YouGov survey conducted on behalf of Legal and General showed that private renters are willing to pay up to 13% more rent for a low-carbon, energy-efficient property.
Energy prices have soared in recent months and that has resulted in the current cost of living crisis which we are all facing. Anything that can keep those bills to a minimum is going to prove popular.
Demand for newer homes has increased. Why? Because they tend to be better insulated and efficient. That means they are cheaper to run.
Everyone in the PRS knows that the Government is going to change the laws governing energy use in PRS homes.
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) regulations are to be made stricter over the next year or so. Up until now, the minimum Energy Performance Rating a rented home has to achieve is an ‘E’. This is to be changed to a ‘C’ by 2028 (probably even sooner for new tenancies) and landlords who don’t comply will face heavy fines.
There’s no need to wait for the deadline to be announced, talk to an Energy Performance Assessor now and take their advice on how to upgrade your home by saving the energy it burns. They will look at the efficiency of the heating system and the lighting of course, but they will also take into consideration where you might be wasting energy – through single-glazed windows or lack of roof insulation.
Similarly, when it comes to managing and monitoring energy usage, think about installing Smart products to help tenants keep abreast of their consumption and reduce their carbon footprint. Smart meters, thermostats and even lights can connect to mobile phones via an App and ensure tenants get optimum energy-use from their rented home.
And what about water?
Newer toilets, dishwashers and washing machines all conserve more water than some older models. If you’re looking to replace white goods or bathroom fittings like shower hoses, try to opt for the low-flow or water efficient options to conserve our most precious of resources.
And wherever possible think about using sustainable materials and keeping use of plastics to a minimum. This would apply to renovations and refurbishments, too. Sustainably-sourced timber and recycled products are far better for the planet provided they are relatively locally sourced and don’t clock up high shipping mileage which would undo all your good work.
Can the garden be greener?
There’s lots of scope for eco-friendly initiatives here. What about introducing a composting system?
Most environmentally aware tenants would happily contribute food waste to an active composting system to which they can add grass cuttings, leaves and other garden waste.
Think about insect life and grow as many native plants as possible. These are ideal for attracting bees and butterflies in particular and will be more resistant to pests than non-natives.
Allow a small section of the garden to go ‘wild’. Let it overgrow allowing plenty of room for wildlife.
Give nature a helping hand by providing bird boxes and bug hostels, hedgehog houses and beehives.
And when the Summer comes, collect rainwater in a garden tub for watering the flowers.
At Proctors, we are not just local agents. We are local people, too. Proctors have provided a personal approach to buying, selling and letting for the Borough of Bromley and Shirley in Croydon since 1946. Our local knowledge is second to none, and we are committed to ensuring you get the support to help with your move.