Seeking improvements from your landlord
As a renter you can request repairs when required. If a gas appliance is broken and needs replacement, it is worth requesting consideration of an efficient, all-electric alternative.
While many property managers or owners are likely to simply replace appliances like-for-like, choosing all-electric appliances is unlikely to significantly increase upfront costs and will make properties more attractive to tenants. Templates of letters requesting repairs or improvements are available from Tenants Victoria and Environment Victoria.
As a renter you shouldn’t be required to pay for the upfront cost of new fixed appliances or energy retrofits, since the benefit ultimately accrues to the landlord. Renters can be pro-active in seeking out quotes or costing appliances before contacting their agent or housing provider, which could ensure a different outcome.
Solar Victoria offers a rebate program for solar panels for rented homes. The program includes advice and templates on structuring an agreement between landlords and tenants. Agreements may involve increases to rent payments, noting that these increases should be smaller than the bill savings from solar. If entering into an agreement that includes rental increases it is important to secure details in writing, including any implications at the end of a lease or tenancy.
What other steps can you take?
While there is a strong case that fixed appliances for heating and cooling should be a responsibility of landlords, if you are required to provide your own portable appliances then it is worthwhile to choose an efficient, electric option. Portable reverse cycle air conditioners are available, though they do require an outlet duct and water drain hose out of a window and typically do not perform to the same efficiency level as fixed reverse cycle air conditioners.
Plug-in portable induction cooktops are widely available and relatively cheap. While the overall gas amount used in cooking is smaller than heating and hot water, so the energy bill savings are likely to be low, plug-in induction is an option for ensuring peace of mind with no indoor gas cooking.
Renters can also take reasonable steps to improve the thermal efficiency of their home. Low-barrier steps that typically don’t require formal approval from landlords include sealing gaps and draughts; temporary window film to reduce heat transfer through windows; and installing shading (including plants if practical) to reduce summer heat gains.
Finally, renters can choose their own energy retailers and should consider Greenpower.
Here is a list of the state and territory tenants’ union and advice services:
