Retrofit benefits for private landlords

Our EcoCosi home improvement service offers valuable support for landlords looking to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. Our experts are on hand to deliver a retrofit that brings benefits to both landlord and tenants.

A warmer home for your tenants

One of the major benefits of an EcoCosi retrofit is a warmer, more comfortable home for your tenants.

The World Health Organisation recommends an indoor temperature of at least 18 degrees. Anything below this level increases the risk of respiratory illnesses (such as asthma and COPD) as well as higher blood pressure and related health issues.

In rented properties with low energy efficiency, it can be very difficult for tenants to maintain healthy temperatures. That’s because most of the heat produced in the home will simply leak out of the walls, windows and roof. In particularly inefficient properties, it may not be possible to keep heat in at all, even when running the heating constantly. However, by upgrading insulation, homes retain heat for longer, allowing them to reach temperatures of 18 degrees and above.

As an added bonus, if your tenants are comfortable in their homes, you’re less likely to experience high turnover in occupancy.

Protection against damp and mould

Energy efficient homes are less susceptible to damp and mould. According to the NHS, damp and mould carry health risks such as asthma and allergies. Babies, young children, the elderly, and anyone with existing skin or respiratory problems are particularly at risk. That’s why it’s really important to keep your tenants safe.

At EcoCosi, we know the importance of taking a “whole house approach” when it comes to damp and mould. That means combining insulation with ventilation, so that moisture has a way to leave the home, thus maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

Lower energy bills for tenants

If your rental properties have low energy efficiency, your tenants will need to run their heating for long periods at high temperatures to stay warm. As a result, the energy bills for the property will be very high. If their main system isn’t keeping them warm enough, some tenants may supplement it with secondary heating, such as fan heaters. This type of heating tends to use a lot of electricity, further increasing your tenants’ energy costs.

Improving the energy efficiency of your rental properties means your tenants should be able to stay warm by running their heating for less time and at lower temperatures. This translates into lower energy costs, which is particularly important at a time when people are struggling with the rising cost of living. Lower energy bills help tenants to avoid or mitigate fuel poverty and maintain sufficient funds to meet their other basic needs, such as food, transport, and childcare. This can significantly reduce stress and anxiety around finances, leading to improved mental health.

Compliance with upcoming energy efficiency standards

As part of its net zero strategy, the Scottish Government is currently developing a Heat in Buildings Bill. The latest update to the Bill shows that there will be a strong focus on tackling fuel poverty. Since fuel poverty is linked to poor energy efficiency, and the Scottish Government has previously reported that privately rented homes are more likely to be in the lowest EPC bands, we expect to see minimum energy efficiency standards for the private rented sector.

With the Heat in Buildings Bill to become law in 2026, now is a great time to see how EcoCosi can help you get ahead by retrofitting your rental properties.

Helping to lower Scotland’s carbon emissions

As well as improving energy efficiency, EcoCosi can also help switch your rental properties over to low carbon heating systems.

In order for Scotland to reach net zero, we’ll need to change the ways we heat and power our homes. By replacing fossil fuel heating in your properties, you’ll be playing your part in helping to bring down Scotland’s carbon emissions.

Lots of people are choosing to make this switch when it’s time to replace the boiler in one of their rental properties. Our EcoCosi experts can help you understand your options and choose the most suitable type of low carbon heating.

Are you a tenant looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency?

For most changes, you’ll need to get your landlord’s permission. You can ask your landlord to consider things like draught proofing, insulation, or heating controls.

In the meantime, you could try some of our Energy Saving in the Home tips, from draught excluders to tweaking your thermostat.