A new survey from an online rental platform claims tenants are willing to pay for greener homes.

Some 98 per cent of respondents to a survey by Lettingaproperty said that they would prefer a home optimised to increase energy efficiency, reduce energy costs and minimise environmental impact.

Fifty three per cent were prepared to pay more for a greener property. Of those just over a half would willingly pay 10 per cent more rent, while a further third would accept a five per cent rent increase. 

One in 12 even said they would accept a 20 per cent rise.

Platform founder Jonathan Daines says: “We’ve heard a lot recently about the cost to landlords of making their properties greener, from replacing gas boilers with heat pumps to installing insulation. 

“This survey has revealed that tenants are prepared to play their part too, with over half of renters happy to pay more for greener homes. It is overwhelmingly clear that tenants are demanding greener choices than the rental sector currently offers.”

The vast majority of renters – 85 per cent – were happy to consider a ‘green lease’ as part of the solution to level up the rental sector’s sustainability credentials. Green leases include clauses designed to ensure the tenant and landlord work together to improve the home’s energy efficiency, while reducing costs and environmental impact.

The survey also suggested that tenants already expect their rental homes to deliver on a number of fronts when it comes to sustainability. 

Ninety five per cent of those responding expect their property to have double glazing and 92 per cent expect it to have loft or wall insulation.

Another 92 per cent expect recycling bins as standard, while 73 per cent expect LED lightbulbs. 

In terms of technology, 56 per cent of renters expect smart meters and 38 per cent expect smart thermostats. Precisely half expect dual flush toilets, while 26 per cent expect solar panels and ground source heating.