In line with the global recognition of the need to increase sustainability, and making a primary contribution to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities - Resonance’s homelessness property funds are focused on improving the environmental credentials of all properties purchased so that tenants not only have a decent and affordable home to live in, but also one which is energy efficient with an improved environmental impact

• With 21% of total carbon emissions in the UK coming from our homes, to reach the government’s Net Zero 2050 target it aims to cut carbon emissions by 78% by 2035
• To achieve this target, the Climate Change Committee, which is advising the UK Government, has recommended that all homes should have an EPC rating of C from 2028.
• As for privately rented homes, the government itself has recently published a consultation in which it proposes bringing this further forward for some landlords, with all new tenancies requiring a C rating by 2025

Our impact property funds work with housing partners to identify and purchase suitable properties based on the needs of tenants. Making effective, long-term and sustainable improvements to properties through refurbishment and retro-fitting and before they are leased to housing partners, is a way in which Resonance can improve the EPC ratings of properties making them more environmentally sound and once handed over to tenants, can help them save money on bills, making their homes more comfortable during the colder months.

In order to improve property EPC ratings to a minimum C rating and energy efficiencies, properties purchased by the funds undergo a range of refurbishment measures, such as installing more efficient smart heating controls and high heat retaining electric storage heaters, insulating lofts and empty cavity walls and installing double-glazed windows.

All of this means lower carbon emissions and more affordable energy bills.      

Examples of two properties that have recently been purchased and refurbished so that their environmental performance and EPC ratings have been improved are detailed below.

The Women in Safe Homes Fund

In Bradford, the Women in Safe Homes fund bought a two-bedroom, semi-detached, post war build property with housing partner Daizybell. The property was rated D at purchase but following refurbishment its EPC rating increased to a C. The property underwent several significant improvements. This included upgraded double glazing, new loft insulation, a newer and more energy efficient boiler, better and more efficient radiators, and new electrical systems which included a full re-wire and functionality at a higher capacity.

These improvements mean that the property is now much more energy efficient with an improved environmental impact. The improved EPC rating and energy efficiency ensures the tenant will be warm in the house in the colder months and should help save money on everyday running costs, which considering the current cost of living crisis and increasing energy prices should of benefit to the tenant. Following refurbishment, the property was handed over to Daizybell in late November 2021 and in early December, a woman - who had been experiencing domestic abuse - and her children moved in.

Additionally, in the last year:

• 100% of all Women in Safe Homes properties refurbished, handed over to housing partners and tenanted are EPC rating C and above
• 11% of properties are rated EPC B

The Resonance Supported Homes Fund

The Resonance Supported Homes Fund purchased a four-bedroom, detached property in a residential area of Lowestoft, Suffolk and was chosen with United Response specifically for three young adults who will live in the property together. At purchase the property was rated EPC E. The property is tucked away in one of the town’s suburbs and whilst it was well maintained and modern when purchased still underwent significant refurbishment to a high standard, ensuring it meets the individual and collective needs of all three tenants.

To improve the property’s EPC rating from an E to a C, improvements included a new and more efficient boiler and gas meter, and new electrical systems which included a full re-wire and functionality at a higher capacity. And as well as new décor throughout, the property has had a new kitchen and bathroom fitted, and a garage conversion to new office space for the housing provider’s staff. These improvements mean that the property is now much more energy efficient and should help the tenants with their energy bills, as well as having an improved environmental impact. The property has now been handed over to United Response who will be moving the three tenants in shortly.