Greener landlords and tenants

Government support for energy efficiency has been scaled back in recent months plus the end of the Green Deal last year. This year we have seen a reduced feed-in-tariffs for solar panels, but there is still help available if you know where to look.

If you are a landlord making your buy-to-let energy efficient is a good way to keep your tenant happy – and happy tenants are good for your investment. Another thing to keep in mind is that a well-insulated property will command a much higher re-sale price.

A home’s efficiency is scored from A to G depending on how much improvement is needed.

From 2018 all rented out homes will need to have a minimum grade of E before being let. Landlords could be fined or banned from renting a property out if they fail to comply.

In April 2016 tenants were given the right to ask their landlord for consent to carry out energy efficiency improvements, with the landlord only able to refuse if their request is ‘unreasonable’

An energy efficient property is cheaper to run, which is good news for your tenants thus making a property easier to let.

Before paying for green measures such as a new boiler or double glazing out of your own pocket, it is worth checking if your local council or energy provider can help.

The type of support you can get depends also on which part of the UK your buy-to-lets are based.

England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all offer different types of support.

Can we help?

It’s so easy to find out if you qualify for a grant or indeed free installation, just select your requirement and click the “see if I qualify” or “apply now”. Acting now could save you thousands in the future and at the same time increase the value of your property.