Energy efficient rental properties – how our sustainability ethos helps landlords get ahead

If you are a landlord in central London, it’s likely you have heard about the proposed change in government law requiring all rental properties to have a minimum energy efficiency C-rating in the not-too-distant future.

Which? News tells us that the government plans to ensure all new tenancies have this C-rating by 2025, while existing tenancies will need to have made the necessary changes by 2028.

Sadly, those period features that act as a USP for mansion flats to let in Kensington, townhouses in Westminster and terraces in Islington, can also lag behind in terms of energy efficiency. And many privately owned rental properties in zones 1 and 2 hold a rating of E, which is the current specified minimum.

You might also have heard cautionary tales about the arbitrary nature of EPC assessments; the story of the landlord who has spent out on upgrading their property, only to be told it is now rated lower than before is a common complaint.

It is unsurprising then, that the prospect of making – and paying – for these upgrades can be overwhelming for our clients. Many of whom are private home owners wishing to take advantage of our blended lettings model, by letting their homes through a mix of short, medium and long term lets while they travel or work abroad. The good news is that it doesn’t have to. 

With sustainability a core value, Fairway Hosting are already advising landlords on the ways they can make their rental properties more energy-efficient.

Regulated by the RICS, our team of Chartered Surveyors advise on a range of features for our clients’ investments, with a tick list of:

-        The installation of energy-efficient appliances and lighting

-        The replacement or sealing of old windows

-        Water-saving measures

-        Insulation

-        The use of renewable energy sources

We give expert advice on how best to apply these measures to a single property or an entire apartment block. And our clients invariably find that these energy-saving measures save them money in the long term.

If you are the landlord of a listed building – where EPC ratings don’t apply in the same way – we can also guide you through making your rental property more energy efficient without compromising your obligations as a listed property owner.

There are further benefits to making your property energy efficient that you might not have foreseen.  While a SMART and sustainable home has become a non-negotiable for many long-term tenants, your energy efficient property will also tap into the growing eco-tourism market for short lets too. We are perfectly placed to help you reach that market, and would love to talk to you about your plans.

Contact us to understand more about how our sustainability ethos can help you get ahead in the London lettings market.