Episode 2: Boosting energy performance and the furnished/unfurnished debate

In this episode we discuss the Government’s plans to increase energy efficiency in rented homes, the challenges faced by student landlords and whether furnished or unfurnished lets are more popular. Presenters NRLA CEO Ben Beadle (@BeadleBen) and Richard Blanco (@richardblanco_) talk to guests landlord James Tanner and Kate Thomas on energy efficiency and the Government’s Green Homes Grants scheme. James has carried out energy improvements on his Edwardian rental home to raise its EPC rating to almost an A. He explains how he did it and shares his top tips to landlords who want to do the same. Kate is senior project manager for the Centre for Sustainable Energy and talks about the challenges of making improvements to older homes, as well as opportunities and exemptions. Elsewhere in the show James Harvie, of the NRLA advice team talks about the hot topics on the phonelines throughout the month. And lastly we meet Zoe Bywater (@belvoirbedford) director of lettings at lettings and estate agents Belvoir, who looks at the relative benefits of letting out furnished and unfurnished homes – as well as latest trends. If you enjoyed the show please spread the word on your social media channels using the hashtag #listenuplandlords . For all podcast enquiries email [email protected] Guest Biographies James Tanner James is a developer, landlord, letting and managing agent and member of the NRLA.  He and his wife completed an eco-retrofit on an Edwardian house whilst retaining the original features to minimise energy use and CO2. They have written a checklist for landlords, detailing low-cost improvements that can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency of your rental, which can be read here. Kate Thomas Kate currently manages a range of projects across the West of England supporting householders to reduce their energy use and fuel bills while still keeping their homes safe and warm. Kate manages CSE’s volunteering initiative recruiting and training volunteers to work alongside trained advisors and providing peer support to older householders. She also manages projects supporting landlords. Zoe Bywater With almost 18 years’ lettings experience, Zoe provides information to clients on the buy to let market and sources the best deals and best products for clients. Level 4 Qualified and a Member of ARLA Propertymark she is an influential industry figure and advocate of the regulation of property agents (ROPA) . A landlord herself, she has organised  several successful landlord events for the Bedford Landlords Network and enjoys a close relationship with the local community. She also authors the Bedford Property Blog. More information For more information on the Government’s Green Homes Grants scheme click here and for further detail on the NLRA campaign encouraging landlords to sign up for grants click here. The Oxford University research quoted by James on attitudes towards energy efficiency can be found here. The company providing the insights for Belvoir on premiums charges for furnished properties is