Saving energy and reducing disputes for landlords

As energy efficiency remains an increasingly pressing issue in the private rented sector, landlords face the challenge of managing further energy cost increases, while ensuring compliance with EPC regulations. At the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, we’ve seen how energy-related disputes can arise, particularly when tenants feel bills are excessive or properties are poorly insulated. Here, we offer practical energy-saving tips for landlords and guidance on how to avoid disputes linked to energy use.   

Energy-efficient properties aren’t just beneficial for tenants, they make good business sense for landlords too. Improved energy efficiency can improve property value and lower maintenance costs over time.  Some upgrades to consider are: 

1. Insulation is key to improving energy efficiency and is the top priority for tenants. Around a third of all the heat lost in an uninsulated home escapes through the walls, and according to the TDS Charitable Foundation’s Voice of the Tenant Survey, 30% of tenants cited insulation as the improvement they most want to see in their homes A well-insulated home maintains heat more effectively, keeping tenants warm and energy bills down. 
    
2. Double or triple glazing: Drafty windows and doors are a common tenant complaint. In the Voice of the Tenant Survey, 27% of tenants called for improvements like double glazing. Upgrading to double or triple glazing enhances energy efficiency, reduces external noise, and minimises condensation.  
    
3. Replace outdated boilers with energy-efficient models like combi-boilers. These heat water on demand and combine heating and hot water into one compact system.   
    
4. If you aren’t ready to invest in a new boiler, you should consider getting a jacket fitted around your tank if there isn't one already. It should be at least 80mm thick to be the most beneficial for saving energy. 
    
5.  Install low-flow showerheads to reduce water and energy usage. 
    
6. Use draft excluders and seal gaps around windows, doors, and skirting boards. 
    
7. Install reflective radiator panels to direct heat back into the room rather than letting it escape through external walls. 
    
8. Replace old bulbs with LED alternatives, which last longer and consume less energy.   
    
9. Is your property let out furnished or with white goods? When appliances need replacing, consider investing in products that have the energy ratings of A+++.  
    
10. Offering tenants the ability to monitor and manage energy use by installing a smart meters and smart thermostats can reduce consumption and allow tenants to have more control over their energy usage.   

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) remain a legal requirement for rented properties in the UK, and as of 2030, all newly rented properties must have an EPC rating of C or above (with some exceptions, such as grade-listed buildings).  The Tenancy Deposit Scheme recommends these steps to ensure compliance: 

1. Review your EPC : Check when it expires and whether the rating meets upcoming standards. You can find your EPC certificate and when it expires here. 
    
2. Plan your upgrades early: Schedule energy efficiency improvements ahead of time to avoid a rush closer to the deadline.  
    
3. Keep tenants informed: Transparency about energy performance improvements reassures tenants that you’re prioritising their comfort and energy savings.   

At TDS, we’ve seen energy-related disputes arise at the end of tenancies, often due to unpaid utility bills or disagreements over meter readings.  Here’s some advice on what to focus on to avoid deposit disputes at the end of tenancy: 

1. Address maintenance promptly 

Energy efficiency issues can escalate if maintenance isn’t handled in a timely manner. Problems such as draughty windows, faulty boilers, or outdated appliances not only increase energy costs but can also lead to disputes over repair obligations.  Ensure you respond promptly to repair requests, particularly for issues affecting heating or hot water systems.  

2 . Clarify responsibilities in the tenancy agreement 

Take a look at the tenancy agreement and ensure it’s specified whether tenants or landlords are responsible for utility payments and ensure the property has clear, accessible meter readings.   

3. Check in and Check out details.

Remember to record meter readings at check-in, check-out, and during any mid-tenancy inspections. Share these readings with tenants for transparency, and at the end of the tenancy remind tenants to settle their utility bills.   

As a landlord, accessing the right resources can make all the difference when improving energy efficiency and avoiding disputes. Government schemes, such as energy efficiency grants, offer valuable financial support for upgrades, making it easier to invest in improvements like insulation or upgrading heating systems. At the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, our expertise extends beyond being a deposit protection scheme, to include resources designed to help landlords navigate energy efficiency challenges. Our Energy Efficiency Guide provides advice on how to improve your property's performance, reduce energy-related disputes, and keep tenants happy. Additionally, our TDS Help Centre has a wealth of information available for landlords.  

Visit our TDS Help Centre to find more guides, tools and templates, all designed to make the life of a landlord easier.  

Some of our resources are only available to landlords who use the free deposit protection scheme at TDS Custodial or the insured scheme at TDS Insured. You can access all templates, tools and the full tenancy deposit management dashboard by joining the Tenancy Deposit Scheme.