Five energy efficiency upgrades to consider when renovating

Posted 7 Sep '24

by Carrie Metcalfe on Sep 06, 2024
Article appears under: Renovate to Rent Blog

Energy efficient properties are a win-win-win. Tenants have warmer, drier properties that are cheaper to run; Landlords benefit from modern properties that support long-term tenants and larger applicant pools; and the environment benefits.

Here are five things Renovate to Rent consider when planning a renovation for our clients. :

1. LED Lighting:
   In a recent project coordinated by Renovate to Rent, we added a new ceiling in the main living area and kitchen. This was the perfect opportunity to install energy-efficient downlights. The new LED lights not only modernized the property and improved the room's previously dim lighting, but they also enhanced energy efficiency compared to replacing the old lights with the same type of fixtures.
   
2. Regular Appliance Servicing:
   Our tradespeople often point out that heat pumps could have a longer lifespan with regular servicing. Servicing not only removes dust and debris that can affect operation, but also detects issues that might affect energy consumption. Proper maintenance can lead to prolonged appliance life and reduced energy costs.
   
3. Insulation:
   While the Healthy Homes Act doesn’t require wall insulation in rental properties, we recommend adding insulation if the walls are unsealed during renovations. It’s also a good opportunity to top up underfloor and ceiling insulation, which can compress over time, ensuring the property meets or exceeds energy efficiency standards.
   
4. Draught Stopping:
   Wooden doors and joinery are prone to movement, which can create gaps over time, leading to heat loss. When possible, we recommend replacing louvre windows and wooden joinery with fixed-pane aluminium. If this isn't feasible, we review gaps larger than 3mm and apply draught-stopping measures to prevent heat loss and improve the property's energy efficiency.
   
5. Encourage Responsible Water Use:
   Installing low-flow taps, showerheads, and toilets helps reduce water consumption. When replacing dishwashers, we choose water-efficient models. If your rental property is managed by iRentProperty, regular inspections allow us to quickly identify leaks, preventing excessive water loss and potential property damage, ensuring the property remains energy-efficient and cost-effective for both landlords and tenants.
   

These steps help iRentProperty and Renovate to Rent maintain a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency while enhancing property appeal and long-term value.