Eco-renting: tips for tenants

 

About 35% of Australians rent (rather than own) their home and this figure is rising in response to a number of external pressures, including housing affordability. In the City of Port Phillip, around 45% of all residents rent their home and are more than likely to be in an apartment.

Historically, most rental properties have relatively poor environmental performance. Tenants are limited in choosing many of the fittings, appliances and finishes in the properties they rent, and most (unless guaranteed long-term tenure) will not find retrofitting a viable option. 

But there are a few things you can consider:

Undertake portable improvements. It is always worth installing energy and water-saving devices that you can easily take with you at the end of your tenancy. These include items such as water-efficient showerheads, energy-efficient light globes, draught-stoppers at doors, movable blinds, winter window panels (to preserve indoor heat), even grey-water diverters for watering the garden. You don't need the landlord's permission to install these items. Also, you can make sure your appliances-not only televisions, fridge and washing machine, but heaters, ovens and dishwashers-are as energy- and water-efficient as possible. Finally, if central heating and cooling are installed, set the temperature at an eco-friendly level (i.e. 18-20ºC in winter and 24-26ºC in summer).

Negotiate improvements before you move in. Your conditions report will discuss any necessary repairs to be taken by the landlord or agent to provide an adequate standard for tenancy. If the stove, hot water service or shower is being replaced, rooms being re-painted or re-carpeted, negotiate for energy- and water-efficient fittings and appliances, low-VOC paints or oiled timber floors.

Negotiate cost-effective improvements. Speak to the landlord about cost-effective improvements such as roof insulation (which comes with a healthy rebate), upgrading the faulty heater or cooker to a more efficient reconditioned or second-hand model, installing a dual-flush toilet, installing draught seals around windows and doors, and sealing gaps in walls, ceilings and floors. It may be worth pointing out the following benefits:

• The Australian Taxation Office provides deductions to landlords for energy-efficiency improvements, repairs and maintenance on rental properties. Combined with available rebates, it may cost very little. 
• The property has much lower operating costs and can achieve better resale and rental value with such improvements.

Negotiate to conduct improvements for a lower rent. Your landlord may consider a percentage drop in your rent or agree to keep it at the same level for a minimum of three years in return for gradual energy- and water-efficiency improvements.

Cost-share improvements. Offer to share a percentage cost of the improvements if you are renting for a minimum of three years. Worthwhile improvements include: sealing and refinishing rooms in low-VOC and natural finishes; installing water-efficient showerheads, tap aerators, dual-flush cisterns, greywater diverters, water treatment systems or rainwater tanks; fitting blinds and insulation; and replacing inefficient stoves and heaters. You get to take advantage of any available rebates too, so the changes could end up being very affordable.

Take opportunities during maintenance or servicing. Ask the plumber to insulate hot water pipes, or the electrician to introduce lighting controls such as dimmer switches or sensor lights. Other than actual capital costs for materials, these are minor additional servicing costs, and you may get the installation for free.

Note: Any alterations or improvements to the dwelling require the landlord's permission, so take a cooperative and non-threatening approach to negotiations as you are more likely to gain a happy outcome all around.

For further information, visit Energy Saving and Water Saving.