Times are hard for tenants and landlords alike and this coming winter is causing a worry for many. Almost a quarter of households are already in energy arrears and 9 out of 10 households are worried about increasing energy bills. 

With heating being the largest proportion of the average energy bill, struggling households tend to ration their heating first. which can lead to a range of issues such as mould and damp caused by an underheated home.  

Utilita has produced a guide to help landlords winterproof their properties, and work with tenants to maintain a comfortable environment, on a budget. 

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1. Tenant Education

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Until the 2022 energy crisis, households had never experienced such a price shock. The hike in energy costs has put energy efficiency in laser focus for many people. Guidance is nearly always welcome in our experience. 

• Guides and Tips: Provide tenants with guides on how to reduce energy consumption, such as turning off lights when not in use and setting thermostats to appropriate temperatures. Utilita’s Energy High 5 includes 15 ways to save: https://utilita.co.uk/campaigns/high5 - Cost = £0
• Remind them about the smart meter in-home display / app: These nifty gadgets allow users to set a daily, weekly or monthly budget. This can help households improve their consumption control. Cost = £0

2. Thermal efficiency 

Windows and doors are common sources of heat loss, which will result in higher heating costs. Addressing these areas can significantly improve energy efficiency, leaving the home warmer and free of cold-related damage:

• Weatherstripping*: Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows to seal gaps. This inexpensive solution can prevent drafts and heat loss. Cost = £4 per window
• Caulking*: Use caulk to seal cracks and gaps around window frames and doorways. Cost = £l5

Window insulation kits*: A simple film can insulate a home from any window gaps or seal issues. Cost = £5 per window.

Why bother if there are trickle vents there? Trickle vents are now a legal requirement on all modern UPVC windows. They are positioned at an optimum height based on the way gases in the air work. They allow the right amount of gas exchange at the right height. Rogue gaps that cause draughts will reduce the comfort of those inside a home and should be fixed.   

3. Efficient Heating Systems

• Thermostat guidance: Talk your tenant through how a thermostat works and how to set an effective heating schedule for their needs. Setting the heating to come on an hour before waking in colder months, and an hour before going to bed will avoid any waste. 18-21 degrees is the optimum temperature for a healthy home. Cost = £0
• Radiator heat reflectors: These valuable additions send the heat back into the room rather than into the wall. Cost = £10 per radiator  
• Heating System Maintenance: Use a reputable service provider for your annual boiler service. Clean filters and check for any issues to maintain optimal performance. Cost = £100 a year, or less when you subscribe to annual cover. 

Energy-Efficient Heating: If the heating system is outdated, consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model. By replacing a boiler a household can save £310 a year: https://home.utilita.co.uk/ Cost = £0-£1,000 - speak to Utilita about eligibility for free or subsidised measures via Government schemes.

4. Water Heating Efficiency

Water heating is another area where landlords can improve energy efficiency:

• Insulate water tanks: Add an insulating jacket to hot water tanks to reduce heat loss.
• Low-Flow Fixtures: Install low-flow fixtures to taps and showers to reduce hot water usage without sacrificing comfort. Cost = £0 most water companies will provide these for free
• Check the water temperature on the boiler: Safely reduce the water temperature to radiators and taps to save - read more here: https://utilita.co.uk/blog/tech/2022/03/is-your-hot-water-costing-you-the-earth  

5. Ventilation & humidity  

• Breathing buildings: It costs more to heat air filled with moisture than it does to heat dry air, so ventilation is key. Good ventilation will help moisture to escape, meaning heating doesn’t have to work so hard, which cuts costs. Ensure all wall vents and window trickle vents are clear from debris and are left open. Educate tenants on the value of mechanical ventilation such as extraction fans, but make sure all filters are clear to achieve effective outcomes. Cost = £0  
• Outdoor drying space: Provide an outdoor drying space, where possible, or educate the tenant on the value of a large clothes airer left in a room with open windows - advise against drying clothes on the radiators. Cost = £0  

6. Modern Lighting Solutions

Lighting can also contribute to overall energy efficiency:

• LED Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs, which use less energy and have a longer lifespan. Cost = £5-£30

7. Renewable Energy Sources

‍Incorporating renewable energy sources can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of rental properties.

• Solar Panels: Install solar panels to generate electricity and reduce reliance on the grid. This frees up funds for heating where gas is still used. Cost = Starting at around £5K
• Heat pump: Replace gas with an electric heat pump powered by solar. The building must be thermally efficient for this solution to be effective. Cost = £5-£15K

8. Insulation Upgrades

‍Effective insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing heating costs. Consider the following:

• Attic Insulation: Ensure the attic is well-insulated, as a significant amount of heat can escape through the roof. Adding or upgrading insulation can have a substantial impact on energy efficiency. Cost = £500-£1,000
• Cavity or Solid wall Insulation: Inspect walls for adequate insulation. In older buildings, walls might not be insulated properly. Adding insulation to exterior walls can drastically improve heat retention. Cost = £1,000 - £15,000* 
• Floor Insulation: In properties with crawl spaces or basements, insulating the floors can prevent heat loss and cold draughts. Cost = £200-£2,000 

*Making a property more thermally efficient will also require a check to ensure there is adequate ventilation.

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