Landlords committed to improving energy efficiency

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Development, Environment

Just over 50% of private landlords have made energy saving improvements to two of their rental properties, and a further 12% have made improvements to five or more.

The data from the National Landlords Association (NLA) suggests that a proactive approach is being taken by the private rental sector towards energy efficiency.

The NLA is now urging landlords to utilise energy grants Warm Front, the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) and Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) before they come to a close at the end of the year.

David Salusbury, Chairman of the National Landlords Association, said: “The private-rented sector has a key role to play in ensuring Britain meets its energy targets and so it is important that we make use of the funding available. Furthermore, it is imperative that landlords future-proof their properties and their investments. If landlords don’t act now, they may find their property cannot be legally let come 2018 under the new legislation.

“With money left in the pot for the existing schemes, it’s important that landlords and tenants alike take advantage of the funding whilst it’s still available. It’s free for landlords and saves tenants money on their energy bills.”

Landlord Marion Money, who taken advantage of the Warm Front and CERT funding schemes, said: “I have made energy improvements to seven of my properties using Warm Front grants for central heating systems and insulation together with loft insulation and draught proofing measures using the CERT funding.

“I am quite passionate about energy efficiency – it benefits my tenants as they receive added value and cheaper energy bills. In fact, one of my elderly tenants was really delighted by the increased warmth and comfort provided by the central heating and insulation installation.  And it’s not just my tenants who benefit – I am protecting my investment for the future. I would definitely advise other landlords to do the same.”