Low bills and eco-friendly energy are a top priority for modern renters

As we enter the winter months, it’s a key time for letting agents and landlords to consider the energy solutions and advice they offer to tenants.

According to Tenant Shop, while renters will always prioritise keeping bills down, they are also increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their energy consumption.

 

Tenants increasingly conscious of environmental issues

In recent times, renters have become more concerned with where their energy comes from and whether it’s renewable or not.

Research by Your Move shows that 42% of tenants regard the eco-friendliness of a home as key when choosing a rental property – a figure which jumps to 50% in London.

According to Tenant Shop, this is a trend which is only going to grow as the climate crisis intensifies.

“Having access to renewable energy could soon become a top priority for tenants as the population is more aware of green issues and people are increasingly committed to reducing their carbon footprint,” says Glenn Seddington, managing director of Tenant Shop, an Inchora company.

 

Keeping bills down will always be paramount

Meanwhile, it’s important for tenants to have access to affordable energy suppliers and tariffs as keeping their monthly bills down will always be at the forefront of their mind.

There are a number of ways letting agents and landlords can help renters to keep their bills affordable.

“One of the most effective ways agents and landlords can help tenants to keep energy costs down is by making rental properties as energy efficient as possible,” Seddington explains.

“This could include servicing the boiler, providing cavity insulation and installing draught excluders.”

“On top of this, tenants would also benefit from expert advice on how to keep a property warm without breaking the bank on heating costs,” he says.

“This kind of holistic service can help to keep tenants happy during the long winter months, increasing the chances of them staying for the long-term.”

 

Choosing a supplier in a busy market

 “Energy is likely to be one of the most significant bills tenants pay each month, particularly in the winter,” says Seddington.

“The modern renter has choice and flexibility in most aspects of their life, so there’s no reason why energy shouldn’t be a part of this.”

Seddington explains that tenants will increasingly be look for a balance between affordable bills and being eco-friendly.

“Anything agents and landlords can do to facilitate this through advice, offers and home improvements could be highly valuable in securing long-term, happy renters,” he says.

Tenant Shop offers tenants an easy switching service, which can help them to avoid being automatically set up on a potentially costly standard tariff.

Their comparison service, helping renters to save over £5 million in 2018, has a panel of carefully selected suppliers, including Scottish Power which is 100% committed to wind power and green energy.

Tenant Shop’s energy experts are also on hand to help renters to choose the most suitable tariff for their circumstances.