Boost energy efficiency and rental appeal with a simple eco-friendly upgrade | Hillarys x Together.

As a landlord, every design decision you make shapes not just how your property looks, but how it performs. With energy costs rising and tenants increasingly mindful of sustainability, even the smallest upgrades can make a meaningful difference.

That’s why Together has teamed up with the experts at Hillarys to explore how something as simple as investing in high-quality blinds can help landlords create Buy to Let properties that are more efficient, attractive, and comfortable to live in.

Small changes, smarter thinking

Whilst the bigger changes will help you increase your EPC rating, sustainability shouldn’t just about solar panels and heat pumps.

Paul Moran, Sustainability Lead at Together, explains: “Even on the smaller tasks, you can make a real difference simply by choosing higher quality, eco-conscious materials. Not only will they typically last longer, meaning less maintenance, but they’ll also start to make a cumulative impact on the energy efficiency of the property.”

For example, made-to-measure blindsare a great option and offer more than just style, as they help regulate temperature, reduce energy use, and show tenants that you care about the quality of their living space.

Insulation that works year-round

Energy-saving blinds are designed to trap heat in the winter, retaining a property’s warmth and keeping cold draughts at bay. This reduces reliance on central heating and ensures that the energy your tenants use to warm their home doesn’t fly out the window (literally). Blinds can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 33%.

Hillarys explains that energy saving thermal blinds are effective in the summer, too.

“In summer, blinds come in handy for keeping hot air out and cool air in, creating a more comfortable living space. With less need for fans or air conditioning, your tenants can brave heat waves without skyrocketing their electricity bills.” - Yvonne Keal, Senior Product Manager at Hillarys.

Homes that are cheaper to run and easier to keep comfortable are far more attractive to tenants. And with 80% of renters in the UK are in favour of homes being upgraded to an EPC rating of C or above, it’s clear that sustainable energy-efficient upgrades are now expected by tenants.

Style that adds substance

As well as being practical, blinds are a subtle way to elevate your interiors. Whether you’re renting to young professionals or families, a well-dressed window can make a property feel more considered and more premium.

From minimalist roller blinds to elegant Roman styles, Hillarys offers options that suit every space. With electric blinds, you can also add a touch of modern convenience that appeals to tech-savvy tenants or those with accessibility needs.

Match blind styles to your market

Before choosing your thermal blinds, get to grips with the different styles available to ensure you’re making the right choice for your property and your tenants.

Common blind styles include:

• Roller blinds: For a minimalist design that fits right into modern homes, this is a go-to style. Low-maintenance, durable, and easy to install, roller blinds are a great choice for rental properties.


• Roman blinds: For design appeal that oozes elegance, consider Roman-style blinds. They offer thermal linings and add a luxury, homely touch to your windows and are the perfect choice for larger rooms.


• Electric blinds: Looking to drive the value of your rental home up? Give your property a unique selling point with electric blinds, blending convenience and energy efficiency for a sleek finishing touch.

In terms of colours and patterns, keep your blinds simple. A neutral colour is best for widespread appeal, ensuring your tenants can envision their own style within the backdrop of your property.

Energy efficiency isn’t a passing trend in the rental industry. So, if you’re planning on renovating your Buy to Let property, make sure that energy-efficient upgrades (including energy saving blinds) are on your checklist.

At Together, we’re always on hand to help, whether you need to finance a rental refurb or you’re looking to add another property to your portfolio. Get in touch with our expert team to find out how.