The age of appliances and fixtures can affect the running costs in a property.
For example, an old split system air conditioner can be twice as expensive to run as a 2019 model.
Tenants should stay away from properties with large west-facing windows and look for properties with double glazed windows and awnings and if possible, ample natural shade from trees.
It is worth paying attention to the absence of any heating or cooling as the cost of using portable devices can be very costly.
Here is a checklist of what to avoid when looking for your next property to rent:
• Dripping or leaking hot water taps
• Older, inefficient air-conditioners
• Dryers
• Halogen down-lights
• Pool pumps without a timer
Here is what to look for to reduce energy costs:
Reverse-cycle split-system airconditioning
Three-star or higher shower heads
Insulation
Front-loader washing machines
Clothes lines or space for an airer
LED light bulbs
RealRenta will always be Free for tenants.
RealRenta tenants can log in at any time to view and download their tenant ledger and communicate with their landlords in real time, with time and date stamped authenticated interactions.
Jason Gwerder
Friday, 28 June 2019
