As a landlord in Huddersfield, you’re used to thinking in terms of rent, maintenance, and keeping tenants happy. Now, there’s another factor being talked about more in the rental market: sustainability.
In Huddersfield’s rental market, energy-efficient homes are in demand. They’re cheaper to run, easier to let, and better for the environment.
With rising energy prices, growing regulation, and more eco-conscious tenants, landlords who act now can get ahead. In this blog, we look at how making your rental property greener can help you attract the right tenants, cut costs, and stay compliant.
Why sustainability matters more than ever
Tenants today are asking different questions. They’re looking at how much a home costs to run, how warm it will be in winter, and whether it has things like smart heating or double glazing.
While final rules for energy efficiency standards are still being confirmed, it’s clear that greener homes are going to be expected, not optional. This change matters because it reflects a wider shift in expectations. It’s not just about ticking boxes, it’s about showing tenants that you care about the home they’re living in.
In areas like Lindley, Newsome or Holmfirth, where many older properties aren’t the most energy-efficient to begin with, that matters. A property that’s warm, dry and affordable to run is simply easier to let and more likely to keep good tenants in place.
The financial benefits of going green
Making your property more energy-efficient brings several long-term benefits for your investment:
- Higher tenant interest: Homes that are cheaper to run are more appealing. Tenants are often happy to pay a bit more for a property with lower bills, especially during times when energy costs are high.
- Faster lets and fewer voids: Green homes tend to let faster and encourage longer tenancies. A comfortable, reliable home is easier to live in year-round.
- Lower maintenance and repair bills: Things like modern boilers, LED lighting and double glazing don’t just save energy, they also mean fewer issues and callouts down the line.
- Improved mortgage and insurance options: Some lenders and insurers are starting to offer better rates for landlords with greener homes. They’re seen as less risky and more future-ready.
- Futureproofing against regulation: Making improvements now means you won’t be racing to meet future rules. You can plan ahead, spread the costs, and avoid sudden surprises.
Practical upgrades to make your rental greener
Every home is different, but most landlords can find a few easy wins. Loft insulation is one of the cheapest and quickest jobs that makes a big difference. If your property was built after 1920, it might also be suitable for cavity wall insulation, especially if it’s a mid-terrace in areas like Dalton or Crosland Moor.
Replacing an old boiler with a newer model can cut energy use and reduce tenant complaints. Pair it with a smart thermostat so renters can control the temperature more easily. Even something simple like fitting radiator valves can improve comfort room by room.
Upgrading single glazing, sealing draughts, or switching to LED lights are small jobs that add up. If you’re replacing appliances, go for the most efficient ones available, especially in kitchens where energy use is highest.
Water-saving taps and showers also help. They reduce bills without affecting the experience, and they’re quick to fit.
For bigger upgrades, you might look at solar panels or EV chargers. These are best done between lets, but they’re becoming more common, especially in newer builds or well-kept semis where tenants expect modern features.
Understanding your EPC rating
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives your property a score from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Most rental homes in Huddersfield currently sit between D and E.
You can check your property’s current EPC rating (and recommendations) using the government tool.
Once any changes are made, it’s worth booking a reassessment to showcase the improvements to potential tenants.
Why this matters to your tenants
Energy efficiency isn’t just a landlord issue, it affects everyday life for your tenants.
A home that stays warm in winter and cool in summer makes life easier. It’s also less prone to damp, cheaper to heat, and simply more pleasant to live in. For renters in older stone terraces or uninsulated flats, that’s a real selling point.
When tenants see a landlord making improvements, it builds trust. It shows you’re not just looking to collect rent but also providing a home they can feel comfortable in. That trust often means fewer disputes and longer stays.
And in a town like Huddersfield, where people talk and recommendations matter, being known as a landlord who looks after their properties goes a long way.
Making your property stand out
If you’ve taken steps to improve your rental, it’s important to let people know.
We always recommend highlighting energy-saving features when advertising your property or looking for new tenants. These include:
- “Smart heating controls for better comfort”
- “Upgraded insulation and glazing to reduce bills”
- “Modern energy-efficient boiler installed”
- “Low-energy lighting throughout”
- “EV charging point available”
These features help your property stand out, not just online, but in person too. We make sure they’re mentioned in viewings, on social media, and in conversations with potential tenants.
It’s all part of helping your property attract the right renters faster, and for longer.
How Martin & Co Huddersfield can help
We’ve worked with hundreds of Huddersfield landlords to make their properties more efficient, more marketable, and more comfortable for tenants.
Our lettings team can:
- Review your current EPC and advise on simple changes.
- Connect you with trusted local contractors.
- Market green features effectively to attract better tenants.
- Manage upgrades between tenancies to reduce void time.
- Guide you through new compliance rules and timelines.
Whether you need an EPC check, improvement plan, or marketing refresh, we’ll help you let smarter, greener, and with more confidence.
