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Energy efficient homes easier to let

Making a home more energy efficient by installing measures such as insulation, double glazing and water conservation measures could increase its appeal to tenants.

According to a property insider, getting a high score on an energy performance certificate (EPC) could give a landlord the edge in getting tenants and securing their desired rent.

David Bexon, managing director of email4property, said that tenants are likely to treat a low rating as a bargaining tool as they are aware of the high costs of fuel and electricity these days.

He told Residential Landlord: "While tenants are unlikely to turn down a property solely because it's got an F or G rating, in our increasingly cost conscious world, running costs are playing a more important role in the decision making process when looking to buy or rent a home, and a tenant may now request a reduction in rent to reflect a home's inefficiency."

A recent survey by the Energy Saving Trust also revealed that a good EPC rating would make a home more appealing to buyers.

Starting October 1st all rented properties will have to show an EPC.

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