As UK energy prices continue to soar and the current government attempts to reach the Net Zero emissions targets set for 2050, energy efficiency has become a top priority for many households. But how does this affect those who either live in rental accommodation or rent out the properties that they privately own?
The following article explores how tenants and landlords in the UK can improve energy efficiency, meet legal requirements, and benefit from available Government incentives.
Understanding Energy Efficiency in Rental Properties
Energy efficiency is a word used more and more regularly today. But what exactly does it mean? Simply put, energy efficiency means using less energy to achieve the same outcomes, whether it’s heating your home or powering your appliances. In rental homes, this also involves making sure the building’s fabric, heating systems, insulation, and lighting meet adequate standards that reduce energy waste.
For landlords, ensuring your properties are energy-efficient means you could potentially attract more renters, and it will help maintain or increase the overall value of your property. For tenants, having an energy-efficient rented home means paying lower energy bills and enjoying improved year-round comfort.
Landlords’ Legal Responsibilities
Landlords in England and Wales must comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
Currently, all private rental properties must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above to be legally rented. However, the government is in the process of raising the EPC threshold to a minimum of a C rating. All energy efficiency work must be completed by December 2025 for new rental accommodation and by 2028 for properties with existing tenants.
Current landlord legal responsibilities include:
- EPC Requirements: Landlords must provide an up-to-date EPC copy when renting out a property.
- Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES): Properties that fall below the required EPC rating cannot be legally rented unless an exemption is registered.
- Carrying Out Cost-Effective Improvements: If an EPC rating is too low, landlords may need to install insulation, upgrade heating systems, or replace windows to comply.
Failure to comply can result in financial penalties of up to £5000 on each property.
Practical Steps to Improve Energy Efficiency in Rental Properties
For Landlords:
- Upgrade Insulation: Installing or upgrading loft, wall, and floor insulation can significantly reduce heat loss. Did you know there are Government grants that can subsidise this?
- Replace Inefficient Heating Systems: Consider fitting modern, programmable hybrid boilers that work in conjunction with other low-carbon heating solutions such as heat pumps and solar panels.
- Draught proofing and glazing: Installing double glazing and sealing gaps will prevent heat loss and also reduce noise pollution.
- Use LED Lighting: Switching from halogen to LED bulbs throughout the property can dramatically cut electricity costs.
- Smart Heating Controls: Thermostatic radiator valves and programmable thermostats all improve energy efficiency.
- Apply for Grants: Government schemes provide funding for free energy-efficient upgrades in both private and rental properties. Click below to see if you qualify!
For Tenants:
- Use Your Energy Wisely: Avoid overheating rooms; use timers and thermostats sensibly. Also turn off lights and appliances when not in use and choose energy-saving settings on devices.
- Report Maintenance Issues Promptly: Let landlords know about draughts, damp, or malfunctioning systems as soon as possible.
- Block draughts: Use removable draft excluders and window film. If you choose to seal gaps around doors and windows, make sure you get your landlord’s approval if needed.
- Choose Efficient Appliances: If you are responsible for selecting your own appliances, opt for those with high energy efficiency ratings and don’t leave them on standby.
Tenant-Friendly Energy-Saving Tips
Tenants can significantly contribute to their home’s energy efficiency by following these tips:
- Adjust Thermostats: Lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can reduce your heating bills by around 10%.
- Use Curtains Wisely: Opening curtains during the day will let in natural heat while closing them at night will help to keep the heat in and the cold out.
- Switch to LED Bulbs: Using LED light bulbs will save energy and they also last longer.
- Unplug Unused Electronics: Devices in standby mode still consume power—unplug them when not in use.
- Use Draft Excluders: Placing draft excluders at the bottom of doors will keep your rooms warmer and the cold air out.
UK Energy Efficiency Grants and Support for Rentals
Government programs like ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme can help landlords and tenants fund important energy-efficient improvements. Both schemes aim to help low-income households and people with certain medical conditions access insulation and heating upgrades through their energy supplier.
Tenants should speak to their landlord if they believe their circumstances or the property itself qualify for Government assistance.
If you’re a private tenant or landlord, click here to see if you qualify for Government grants
Shared Responsibility for Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a joint effort. Clear communication and cooperation between tenants and landlords can help to ensure energy saving improvements are made and maintained:
- Dialogue: Discuss possible upgrades and highlight issues promptly.
- Shared Costs: If not covered by Government grants, some improvements may be jointly funded or included in tenancy agreements.
- Energy Assessments: Consider a professional energy audit to identify where cost-effective improvements can be made.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters for Renters and Owners
The benefits of energy-efficient homes are clear:
- Reduced Energy Bills: Lower heating and electricity costs for tenants.
- Higher Property Value: Efficient homes attract quality tenants and perform better on the market.
- Compliance and Reputation: Staying ahead of legal standards protects landlords from fines and enhances their reputation.
- Health and Comfort: A well-insulated home helps prevent damp and provides consistent temperatures.
- Environmental Benefits: Lower energy use means fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy Advice Helpline – Helping you to Make Your Rental Property Energy Efficient
In the UK, improving the energy efficiency of rental properties is more than a legal requirement—it’s an investment in a better future. At Energy Advice Helpline, we help landlords and tenants access supportive schemes and take practical steps to reduce costs, enhance comfort, and contribute to a greener society. Working together, we can build a smarter, more sustainable rental market. If you’re a tenant or landlord and think you may qualify for a Government energy efficiency grant, click the link below.
