Renters reveal their top home improvements

●     June is the most popular time for renters to refresh their space (15%), with decorative (65%), garden (20%) and smart home tech (15%) the most popular changes

●     58% also agree getting in control of their household energy management via a smart meter has helped them feel more in control of their rental home

●     And the benefits of doing so are clear, with 31% tracking their energy use with a smart meter and 21% making savings on household bills

●     Data from Rightmove supports these findings, highlighting the growing importance of energy efficiency among renters

●     Smart Energy GB has partnered with author and interiors expert, Kate Watson-Smyth, to share advice on how to personalise a rental property, alongside collating tips and tricks from three British renters in new content released today, which can be viewed here.

Summer is a time for home renovations and decorative upgrades, and this year it seems that British renters are finding even more creative ways to put a personal touch on their properties.

New research from Smart Energy GB has found that June is the most popular month      for a ‘renters refresh’ as nice weather inspires home changes (37%), spending almost £700 on average making stylistic changes to their homes.

Yet, while June signals a moment of change for many, half (50%) of renters say they update their space several times a year with clever, often temporary, upgrades to showcase their personalities and create functional, beautiful spaces to build lasting memories.

Adding removable wallpaper (16%), adhesive hooks for hanging plants (17%)  wireless adhesive wall lights (14%) and stick-on wall sconces (14%) are just some of the temporary touches proving popular with today’s renters. More simple changes like replacing hardware on cabinetry and storage (18%) and switching up home accessories to add pops of colour (44%) also help renters put a stamp on their properties. In fact, renters have found even more creative ways to add their own flair to their property, including using removable vinyl flooring (18%) and adhesive tiles (16%).

And it’s not just aesthetic changes taking place in the homes of British renters, more than a quarter (28%) of renters say they’ve made changes to make their homes more energy efficient. For many, this comes in the form of taking ownership of their household energy management, by switching to LED lightbulbs (48%), choosing their preferred energy provider (22%) and getting a smart meter installed (38%).      

And with conserving energy front of mind for many, data from the UK’s largest property platform, Rightmove, highlights the growing importance of energy efficiency among renters.

Steve Pimblett, Chief Data Officer at Rightmove adds, “Energy efficiency is one of the top priorities for renters, with 88% valuing a low carbon footprint and 80% considering it in their next move. Renters are not only aware of the importance but are also willing to act, with the vast majority of them ready to pay more for energy-efficient homes and encouraging their landlords to make green upgrades to help save on their energy bills.”    

While nearly a quarter (23%) of renters admit to being unaware that they could request a smart meter installation in their property, if your energy bills are in your name, it’s easy to arrange with your energy supplier. Though, it is recommended you let your landlord know before you upgrade. The benefits of doing so for renters are clear, with      29% feeling more in control of their energy usage and bills (21%) and 31% tracking their energy use since making the move to a smart meter.

Of those who have made changes to their rental property, 86% say the time and effort has been worth it as it makes them feel more at home (63%). In fact, 32% say that decorating their space in their favourite colours, adding photos of loved ones (43%) and plants (39%) make them feel happy when at home. A few tweaks can go a long way when it comes to making renters feel at home, just a fifth (22%) of renters say their property felt like home when they moved in, versus 60% after making a few changes.

Smart Energy GB has teamed up with author and interiors expert, Kate Watson-Smyth, she added: “It’s so important to feel in control of the place you call home, from renter-friendly decorating hacks to simple swaps that can save energy and money. Here are my top tips to embrace the space and make the most of every corner of your home:    

Swap Out Harsh Lighting: 

Rentals can often have bright, cold white bulbs installed, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Swap them for warm white LED bulbs, which are softer on the eyes, more energy-efficient, and long-lasting. Plus, they’re easy to take with you when you move.

Upgrade the Shower Head:

Most bathrooms use standard fittings, so replacing the shower head is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference. Choose a water-saving model or just one that gives better pressure and flow. It’s a small change that can make your daily routine more enjoyable and efficient. Keep the old one so you can swap it back when you leave!

 Use Your Own Curtains:

Curtains are easy to store and are a great touch to elevate a space. Swap out existing ones for styles you like, and consider adding thermal lining to keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs. Swap back before you go so you can use them again.

Block Draughts Creatively:

Prevent cold air from creeping in under doors by sewing your own draught excluders. They're simple to make, easy to store, and can be hung up when not in use.

Hang Art Without Damaging Walls:

Artwork and pictures are a great way of adding a personal touch to your home. In period rentals with picture rails, use chains and hooks to hang art without nails. If you're in a more modern space, self-adhesive hooks are a great alternative, just follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging paint.

Work With Unchangeable Décor:

If you’re stuck with uninspiring features, like that classic “rental grey” carpet, try incorporating that colour into rugs, cushions, or lampshades. Matching these accents creates a cohesive, intentional look while still expressing your personal style.

Soften the Kitchen Aesthetic:

Give your kitchen a quick facelift by using tile stickers and replacing cabinet handles. Dimming harsh lighting and placing a small table lamp on the counter can make the space feel warmer and more inviting. Remember to put the original handles back when you move out.

Request a Smart Meter:

If the energy bills are in your name, you can request a smart meter from your energy supplier at no extra cost, just remember to keep your landlord in the loop. They come with an in-home display that shows how much energy you're using in near-real time, helping you to make small changes that could lower your bills. It’s a simple way to stay in control of your household finances and use energy more efficiently.”

Victoria Bacon, Director at Smart Energy GB, comments: “British renters are incredibly innovative when it comes to personalising their homes.

“But it’s not just decoration. Many are also making changes to save themselves some money, including choosing to request a smart meter from their energy supplier.

“Smart meters enable you to track and manage your energy use, and many people are able to make savings as a result – just remember to let your landlord know.”

Find out more about smart meters for renters HERE and see our tips for tweaking your space HERE.    

 

*If your energy bills are in your name, it’s your choice to have a smart meter installed*, though it’s recommended you let your landlord know ahead of making the change.