Case studies : Household energy efficiency
Helping landlords future proof their energy efficiency compliance
Helping landlords future proof their energy efficiency compliance
Joe and Lisa, landlords of a modern, end of terrace rental property in Brighton, were concerned that the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D wouldn’t meet the new requirements set out under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
With an understanding that regulations will require all rented properties to have a minimum EPC rating of C by 2030, they contacted Brighton and Hove Energy Services Cooperative (BHESCo) for an energy assessment to identify cost-effective ways to improve the property’s EPC rating. They wanted to make the property compliant with future regulations while enhancing tenant comfort and protecting their investment.
The solution: Energy assessment and solar PV installation
BHESCo sent Tim Beecher, a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA), to carry out an assessment. The property had been built with solar thermal tubes on the roof, meaning some of the hot water could be provided from the sun. Being located on top of a hill and with minimal surrounding shading from trees or other buildings, the property is an ideal location for solar power.
With this in mind, Tim concluded that the most impactful way to boost the EPC rating was to install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.
Following the assessment, Tim recommended a local solar installer who designed a five-panel solar PV array positioned around the existing solar thermal system. Tim then conducted a follow-up EPC assessment, confirming the property’s rating had improved from D to C.
The outcome: Improved energy efficiency, legal compliance and happy tenants
Joe and Lisa’s property is now future-proof compliant with MEES, with the additional bonus that the solar panels reduce energy consumption and contribute to a more energy-efficient home, keeping their tenants happy with cheaper bills.
“Tim did a very thorough and careful survey of our rental house staying sensitive to being in the domain of our four tenants. He produced a comprehensive report with recommendations on energy conservation.
He was able to recommend an excellent solar engineer who installed five panels on the roof which are functioning well. Tim then visited again to support our upgrade from an EPC D to a C-rating.”
Joe
Brighton Property Owner / Landlord
Are you a landlord who wants to future proof your property?
Contact BHESCo today for your energy assessment and take the first step towards MEES compliance, energy savings and happy tenants.
We provide:
- Expert assessments: BHESCo provides clear, actionable recommendations to improve your energy efficiency rating to C and above.
- Cost-effective solutions: maximise energy savings with tailored improvements.
- Local expertise: trust a cooperative with local knowledge and professional assessors.
How BHESCo helped Mark improve his home’s energy efficiency and reduce fuel bills
The challenge: Mark’s cold Victorian home
Mark, a Brighton resident, was struggling with high fuel bills and a cold home. Living in a Victorian end of terrace house, he found it difficult to keep the property warm without spending a fortune on energy.
Mark turned to BHESCo for expert guidance on how to improve his home’s energy performance in a way that would save him money and make his home warmer.
The solution: Tailored energy assessment and actionable recommendations
BHESCo sent Tim Beecher, a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA), to carry out a thorough energy assessment of Mark’s home.
Tim examined the insulation, heating, windows, and doors, and identified areas that were contributing to the excessive heat loss. Tim provided Mark with a detailed report that included:
- A summary table of recommended energy-saving measures, customised for the property and prioritised in a logical, cost-effective sequence.
- Estimates of potential energy bill savings from each measure, alongside up-to-date cost estimates and the resulting improvements to the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating.
- Local recommendations of trusted, high-quality suppliers who could install the measures Mark wanted to implement.
This comprehensive report gave Mark a clear, step-by-step guide to improving his home’s energy efficiency over time, making the project more manageable and cost-effective. He decided to:
- Invest in a new insulated front door: Mark worked with a BHESCo recommended local craftsman to install an Accoya front door, which significantly reduced heat loss from the entrance.
- Upgrade his old roof insulation: Mark commissioned BHESCo recommended installers to improve the insulation in the roof, which had been losing a lot of heat.
The outcome: A warmer home and lower bills
Mark enjoyed a hassle free installation and was very happy with BHESCo’s recommended suppliers. His home now feels warmer and more comfortable, and he is on track to see significant savings on his energy bills. He is also planning to implement further energy-saving measures recommended by BHESCo, confident that each step will continue to improve his home’s efficiency.
“I reckon our hallway is at least 3°C warmer in the cold evenings than it was before.” Mark, homeowner.
Do you want a warmer home with cheaper bills?
Contact BHESCo today for a professional energy assessment and take the first step towards a warmer, more energy-efficient home. You will get:
Do you want a warmer home with cheaper bills?
Contact BHESCo today for a professional energy assessment and take the first step towards a warmer, more energy-efficient home. You will get:
- A tailored energy assessment that focuses on what will work best for your home.
- Clear, actionable recommendations with estimates of savings and costs, ensuring you make informed decisions.
- Recommendations of local companies to implement your energy efficiency measures.