With energy bills still a big concern and new regulations on the horizon, making your rental property more energy-efficient has never been more important.
Tenants are looking for homes that won’t cost a fortune to heat and, as a landlord, improving efficiency can help you stay ahead of any changes in legislation.
The good news is that boosting your property’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to mean expensive upgrades. In fact, there are plenty of quick and easy fixes that can make a big difference without breaking the bank.
At Lang Town & Country, our lettings team works closely with landlords to help them keep their properties in top shape, stay compliant with regulations, and make smart investments that benefit both them and their tenants.
Here are 10 simple energy-saving improvements that will help make your rental more efficient – and more appealing to tenants.
1. Switch to LED bulbs
One of the easiest (and cheapest) upgrades is replacing old bulbs with LED lighting. These bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional ones and last far longer, meaning fewer replacements and lower bills. It’s a small change, but one that tenants will appreciate.
2. Draught-proof your windows and doors
A surprising amount of heat escapes through gaps around windows, doors, and even floorboards. The fix? Draught excluders, weather strips, and thermal curtains. These inexpensive additions make homes feel warmer without cranking up the heating, which is a win-win for landlords and tenants.
3. Upgrade to a smart thermostat
Smart thermostats like Hive and Nest let tenants control heating remotely, helping them save energy without even thinking about it. These clever devices can cut heating costs by up to £75 a year, making them a great investment for landlords looking to future-proof their properties.
4. Improve insulation
If your property isn’t well insulated, it’s literally throwing money out the window. Topping up loft insulation (if it’s less than 270mm) and adding cavity wall insulation can make a huge difference in keeping warmth inside. There are even grants available that could help cover the cost.
5. Bleed radiators and get the boiler serviced
Radiators that aren’t working efficiently make heating more expensive than it needs to be. Encourage tenants to bleed them regularly to remove trapped air. And don’t forget the boiler – an annual service keeps it running efficiently and prevents costly breakdowns. If your boiler is over 10 years old, upgrading to an A-rated model could cut heating costs by 30%.
6. Choose energy-efficient appliances
If your rental comes with white goods, investing in A-rated appliances will help tenants use less electricity and water. Fridges, freezers, washing machines, and dishwashers with high energy ratings aren’t just good for the environment – they can also make your property more attractive to renters.
7. Encourage energy-saving habits
Sometimes, small changes make the biggest difference. Providing tenants with simple energy-saving tips – like switching off appliances instead of leaving them on standby, washing clothes at 30°C, and keeping lids on pans when cooking – can cut bills without any cost to you.
8. Install water-saving devices
Reducing water waste isn’t just good for the planet – it also helps keep heating costs down. Fitting low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets, and tap aerators can cut water usage by up to 50%, making them a great low-cost upgrade.
9. Improve window efficiency
Single-glazed windows lose a huge amount of heat. If replacing them with double glazing isn’t an option, try secondary glazing film or magnetic acrylic panels for a budget-friendly alternative that still reduces heat loss.
10. Consider solar panels
If you’re thinking long-term, solar panels can help power your rental with free energy from the sun. While the initial cost is high, government incentives and lower electricity bills mean they can pay off over time – plus, they can boost your property’s EPC rating.
Why energy efficiency matters for landlords
Making your rental property more energy-efficient isn’t just about lower bills – it also helps you:
- Attract tenants who want homes with lower running costs
- Increase your property’s value and appeal
- Stay ahead of EPC regulations
- Reduce maintenance costs by making heating and appliances more efficient
At Lang Town & Country, we work closely with landlords to help them stay ahead of changing regulations, improve their properties, and maximise their rental income.
If you need advice on making your rental more energy-efficient or want to discuss your property’s value, our expert Lettings team is here to help.
Thinking of letting your property? Get in touch today on 01752 201010 or enquiries@langtownandcountry.com for expert guidance and a free rental valuation.
