Energy efficiency needs to be driven by tenants

Posted: 28 Sep 2007 10:58:03 GMT

Energy efficiency is becoming more of an issue for buy-to-let investors and will grow in importance if tenants demand that properties perform well in this area.

Energy efficiency is becoming more of an issue for buy-to-let investors and will grow in importance if tenants demand that properties perform well in this area.

However, the National Landlords' Association (NLA) said that although investors are "starting to show an interest", big changes will not be seen until energy efficiency becomes a priority for tenants.

"Interest from tenants is more 'does the double glazing keep the noise out' and the primary concerns for tenants are still location and how much it costs," said Richard Gard from the NLA.

"They do want to know about bills and that is where energy efficiency improvements can come in and help," he added.

The NLA pointed out that it would "fully embrace" a drive to make energy efficiency improvements but said that the best way to do this is for tenants to begin demanding that changes are made.

"If tenants are going to our members and saying that before they move in to a certain property they want energy efficiency, for example, then that is what our members will respond to," added Mr Gard.

Buy-to-let investors are given incentives to improve the environmental performance of their properties through the Landlords Energy Saving Allowance.

The allowance gives landlords a tax break if they meet specific energy efficiency guidelines.

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