As a tenant, you have the power to make a positive impact on the energy efficiency of your rented property. Engaging with your landlord or letting agent to improve energy efficiency is a step towards a greener, more cost-effective future.

To help you get started, we’ve provided an easy-to-use email template that you can send to your landlord or letting agent.

Email template

Here is an email template you can use to write to your landlord/letting agent. Note, the boiler upgrade scheme is worth £7.500 as of writing this email template, July 2024. It may increase/decrease, so do check on the Ofgem website:

[Email subject:] Maximising energy efficiency: A win-win proposal Hello [your name], I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out as the current tenant of your property at [insert address] to discuss the potential benefits of upgrading your property’s energy efficiency. This is particularly timely, given the upcoming legislation that will require rental properties to meet much higher energy efficiency standards. I wanted to bring to your attention the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers a substantial discount of up to £7,500 for upgrading the heating system of the property. Beyond this, I believe it would be highly beneficial to consider a Whole House Plan, which provides a comprehensive overview of all the measures that would truly enhance the energy efficiency of your rental property. A Whole House Plan takes a fabric-first approach, considering the unique characteristics of the building and its occupancy patterns. It helps identify root causes of issues such as damp and mould, and offers strategic solutions to overcome them. By minimising disruption and sequencing measures effectively, the plan can ensure a smooth and efficient upgrade process. Furthermore, it helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures all improvements complement each other, maximising the return on investment. Here are some specific areas where upgrades could be beneficial: • [Mention any particular issues like single glazed windows, cold spots, drafts, etc.] • [Insert specific measure, such as adding a Heat Pump, improving insulation, or installing energy-efficient windows] With increasing energy efficiency standards for rental properties on the horizon, seizing this opportunity while grant funding is available makes sense. Not only will it ensure compliance with upcoming regulations, but it will also upgrade your property and enhance its appeal to both current and prospective tenants. If you’re interested, you can reach out to Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, a local home retrofit service, for more information on their landlord support page. I’m looking forward to hearing from you and discussing the possibilities of improving this property’s energy efficiency. Thanks, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

This email template will help you to reach out to your landlord or letting agent and kick-start a conversation about improving your rental home’s energy efficiency. Your proactive approach will help you reduce your energy bills, and create a healthier, more comfortable living space while aligning with the government’s evolving energy efficiency standards.