Energy Upgrades That Lower Bills & Attract Tenants

As energy costs continue to rise, tenants are looking for homes that are affordable to run and environmentally friendly. As a landlord, making a few energy-efficient upgrades can help lower utility bills, attract long-term tenants, and even increase the value of your property.

If you have properties to rent in Claygate, upgrading their energy efficiency can make them more desirable while reducing running costs. Here are some simple and effective improvements to consider.

Install Energy-Efficient Heating

Heating is one of the biggest expenses for tenants, so upgrading to an energy-efficient system can make your property more attractive.

• Modern boilers – Replacing an old boiler with an A-rated energy-efficient model can cut heating costs and improve reliability.
• Smart thermostats – Devices like Hive or Nest allow tenants to control heating remotely, reducing wasted energy.
• Programmable timers – Setting the heating to run only when needed helps keep energy bills low.

A warm and cost-effective home is much more appealing to tenants, especially in winter.

Improve Insulation

Good insulation reduces heat loss, making the home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This means tenants use less heating and save money on energy bills.

• Loft insulation – Since heat rises, insulating the loft properly can prevent heat from escaping.
• Cavity wall insulation – Filling gaps in walls helps keep warmth inside, making the home more energy-efficient.
• Pipe insulation – Wrapping pipes in foam tubing prevents heat loss and reduces the risk of freezing in winter.

A well-insulated home is more comfortable and cheaper to run, making it very appealing to potential renters.

Upgrade Windows and Doors

Old windows and doors let heat escape, making tenants rely more on heating. Upgrading to energy-efficient glazing can improve warmth and reduce noise.

• Double or triple glazing – Helps keep heat inside and blocks out street noise, creating a quieter and warmer home.
• Draught-proofing – Sealing gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping prevents cold air from entering.
• Thick curtains or blinds – Providing thermal curtains can help keep warmth in during colder months.

Better insulation through windows and doors leads to lower heating bills and a more comfortable living space.

Switch to LED Lighting

Switching to LED bulbs instead of traditional ones is an easy and affordable way to cut electricity costs.

• They last longer, meaning tenants won’t have to replace them often.
• Using motion sensor lights in hallways or shared spaces reduces wasted energy.

Energy-efficient lighting is a small change that can make a big impact on electricity bills.

Provide Energy-Efficient Appliances

If your rental property comes with appliances, choosing energy-efficient models can reduce electricity and water consumption.

• A-rated washing machines – Use less water and power, lowering tenant bills.
• Energy-efficient fridges – Reduce running costs and last longer.
• Induction hobs – Use less electricity than traditional electric hobs and heat up faster.

By offering modern, energy-efficient appliances, you make your property more desirable while helping tenants save money.

Install Renewable Energy Sources

For landlords looking for long-term savings, investing in renewable energy can cut bills significantly.

• Air-source heat pumps – Provide efficient heating and cooling, making homes cheaper to run year-round.

While these upgrades require an initial investment, they can increase your property’s value and attract eco-conscious tenants.

Use a Smart Meter

Installing a smart meter allows tenants to monitor their energy use, helping them reduce waste and cut costs.

• Displays real-time energy usage, making tenants more aware of their consumption.
• Encourages better energy habits, like turning off lights and appliances when not needed.
• Helps landlords and tenants track bills easily, avoiding estimated charges.

Smart meters give tenants more control over their energy spending, making the property more appealing.

Final Thoughts

Making energy-efficient upgrades is a smart move for landlords. Not only do these changes reduce bills and attract tenants, but they also increase your property’s long-term value.

From better insulation and smart heating to LED lighting and efficient appliances, small improvements can make a big difference. Many tenants are actively looking for affordable and eco-friendly homes, so upgrading your property can help secure reliable renters and maximise returns.