Landlords are responsible for the properties they own, which means they’re also responsible for the sustainability of said properties. Building an eco-house, or creating a completely eco-friendly property, is a difficult task, but there are small changes landlords can make to improve their sustainability, however small those improvements may be.
While it’s of course beneficial to the environment, there are a lot of financial benefits of eco-friendly properties, too.
How to Make a House Eco-Friendly
Renewable Energy
With the cost of energy still on the rise, it’s a good idea to invest in sources that minimise this cost. By finding a renewable energy source for your building, you’ll be helping both the environment and your tenant’s bank account.
The easiest way to do this is with solar panels. These are already a common feature on many buildings both commercial and residential, so your property won’t look out of place. You might even make some money back by investing in solar panels; if they create a surplus of energy, you’ll have the opportunity to sell it back to your supplier.
Consider Your Location
The location of your property can have a big impact on its environmental status. Does it offer convenient access to public transport? This is especially relevant for if you’re looking to lease a commercial space, to minimise customers’ carbon footprint when travelling to and from the building.
Consider the surrounding buildings, too. If, for example, your property regularly finds itself in the shadow of a tall building next to it, your tenants could well resort to having the heating on more often.
Embrace Technology
Smart meters have become common in homes all over the UK, so it’s a good idea to install one in your property. Being able to see your energy spend at quick access prompts people to turn off lights and be more sustainable with their energy.
This would also be a good way of preserving energy in commercial places. Installing a smart meter in communal areas like kitchens or staff rooms where energy use is typically higher can serve as a reminder of people’s environmental impact here, too.
Windows
The windows you install in your property can have a major impact on your property’s energy efficiency. Different windows will allow different amounts of light and heat into your property, so a good way to tell how yours performs is by checking their rating with the British Fenestration Ratings Council.
If you’re in the process of renovating your property, you could also use this opportunity to move the windows to where they’re best positioned for sunlight. This will increase light and warmth, thereby reducing the need to turn on lights and heating where possible.
Eco-Friendly Home Appliances
If you’re creating a furnished building, you’ll have control over the appliances that are installed, so you can choose to opt for more eco-friendly ones.
For example, induction hobs will only use energy when a pan is directly on top of the hob. When a pan with a magnetic base is placed on the hob, it completes the circuit that allows electricity to flow, heating up the pan. This way, if nothing is on the hob, you’re not wasting extra energy.
Even something as small as installing LED lightbulbs throughout the property will make a difference.
Green Grants for Landlords
At Howells, we recognise the complexities of renting a property, both as a landlord and as a tenant. Contact our experts in landlord and tenant law to find out how we can help you with your property today.
