Energy advice for renters

Did you know that everyday actions like heating your home, taking a hot shower, or boiling the kettle all contribute to your energy use and your carbon footprint? 

There are still plenty of simple, low-cost ways to improve your home's energy efficiency, even without involving your landlord. These renter-friendly tips can help you stay warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and save money on your energy bills all without making permanent changes to your home. 

• DIY energy-saving home improvements
• No-cost energy-saving habits and tips

Schemes and support available to renters

Seasonal Health Intervention Network (SHINE) provides free, tailored advice to help you stay warm, reduce your energy bills, and access grants for energy-saving improvements. Services include home visits from an Energy Doctor and support with energy-related issues. 
 
Adult Community Learning (ACL) offers free courses focused on energy efficiency and practical ways to cut your energy bills. These sessions are ideal if you're looking to build your confidence in making small, impactful DIY home improvements.

In need of DIY tools? Local lending libraries Things in Common and Library of Things for your home, projects and adventures provide DIY tools for Islington Residents! Items can be rented for a fraction of the price compared with buying brand new and saves cluttering your home with tools you only need to use once or twice. Tools that can be borrowed include toolboxes with everything you could need for repairs and maintenance, KWh electricity monitors to better understand your electricity usage, and a thermal imaging camera.   

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) 

An EPC helps you to understand the energy performance of your property. You can find your latest on the government's website: Find an energy certificate - GOV.UK. Go to The Energy Saving Trust website for a guide to EPCs. 

If you're renting a home, your landlord is legally required to meet Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). This means the property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above before it can be legally rented out. 

If your home has an EPC rating of F or G, your landlord may be in breach of these regulations—unless they’ve registered a valid exemption. You can check your property's EPC rating online and raise concerns if it doesn’t meet the standard. 

Knowing your rights can help you live in a warmer, healthier, and more energy-efficient home. Find out more in the official government guidance on minimum energy-efficiency standard for domestic private rented property.