Renter's Checklist

A common misconception is that renters have little control over the environmental impacts of their homes. The truth is that renters can influence many environmental aspects of their housing, from choosing where they live to adopting everyday practices that save energy and water. Use this checklist to help select a greener rental house or apartment, as well as to reduce your bills and have a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment once you move-in.

Selecting Your Rental
Once You've Moved In

Selecting Your Rental

Make your next rental a more efficient, healthier, and cost-effective place to live. Before you sign a lease, investigate its green features and quality of its indoor environment. Discuss the considerations listed below, as well as any of your own, with your landlord. If the unit does not meet some of the criteria, use your bargaining power and inquire with the landlord about making some updates.

General Considerations

Location

When choosing the location of your next house or apartment, consider living in a community which is walkable and offers a variety of transportation choices. Consider choosing a community that is close to where you work or frequently visit to minimize the amount of time and money your household spends on transportation. Communities that were planned using Smart Growth principles should have these features. Many smart growth communities have also preserved open spaces for public use and recreation.

Home size

Consider a rental that meets but does not exceed your space needs. All else being equal, smaller houses use less energy to heat and cool.

Green realtors

In some areas of the country, realtors specialize in renting homes with green features, and online listing services provide information on green properties in the area. Conduct an Internet search with your city and search terms such as "green realtor" or "green apartments" to see if these services are available locally.

Energy Considerations

Depending on the type of rental, you may not receive utility bills. Ask the landlord if utilities are included. If they are not, be sure to ask the following questions about energy efficiency. And even if the utilities are included, you may want to ask the landlord about the utility costs built into the rent, so you can better compare utility costs across potential rentals.

Overall energy efficiency

Ask the landlord about the home's energy usage, including heating bills and electricity. Ask for a copy of past utility bills, making sure that the heating bills cover the winter, and the electricity bills cover the summer (if the home is air conditioned). Also, check whether your state requires landlords to disclose the apartment's energy efficiency; if so, request a copy of that information.

Insulation/Weatherization

Homes that are resistant to air infiltration and are well-insulated use less energy to heat and cool. First, walk around the home to see if you feel strong drafts or notice any holes or gaps around the doors and windows; you should request that the landlord address any drafts, holes, or gaps before signing the lease. For older homes, inquire whether it has received any energy efficiency upgrades, such as newer or weatherized windows and doors, or additional insulation. Older homes that have not been weatherized are more expensive to heat and cool.

Efficiency of heating and cooling systems

Investigate the energy efficiency of the unit's heating and air conditioning systems. Inquire about the type of home heating fuel used in the apartment (e.g., oil, gas) and the age of system. Older furnace systems and oil-heated systems are likely to be less efficient and more costly. Ask about the age of the air conditioning unit. Generally, newer equipment is more efficient than older equipment. For more on high-efficient air conditioning units see ENERGY STAR at http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=heat_cool.pr_hvac

Programmable thermostats

If the rental does not have a programmable thermostat, ask the landlord if they would be willing to install one before you move in. Using a programmable thermostat is one of the easiest ways you can save energy and money. It offers flexibility in its temperature settings, and you can adjust the times the heating or air-conditioning turn on and off according to a pre-set schedule that fits your life style.

ENERGY STAR® appliances

Ask the landlord about the age of major appliances such as the refrigerator, dishwasher, washer/dryer, room air-conditioners, stove, and hot water heater. Older models will use more energy. And ask if the appliances are ENERGY STAR^® rated. Newer models, especially ENERGY STAR® models, will save energy and money. Also, look at the hot water heater, and make sure that it is not leaking, which is a waste of energy and water.

Water Considerations

Low flow fixtures

Ask the landlord if the kitchen and bathroom have low flow fixtures, including faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads. If they dont, before signing the lease ask the landlord if they are willing to install them. They are generally inexpensive and one of the most cost-effective water conservation measures. EPA WaterSense^®-labeled brands are a great option for improved efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Leaky fixtures and pipes

If you notice any leaks in the fixtures (faucets, showerheads), pipes, or toilets when viewing the rental, have the landlord fix these before you move in. Leaks can waste significant amounts of water and lead to mold. A leaky hot water heater is also a warning signal, as they can be a serious water and energy waster.

Waste Considerations

Recycling is an important way to reduce the overall environmental impact of your home. Ask your landlord whether recycling options are available in your building or community.

Health Considerations

Make your next rental a healthier place to live, by addressing potential air quality issues with the landlord before you sign the lease. Do not rent a home that does not meet legal health requirements.

Lead

Federal law requires landlords to disclose known information on lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards before leases take effect, and leases must include a disclosure about lead-based paint. Ask the landlord about lead before renting pre-1978 housing, as many dwellings built before 1978 contain lead-based paint. Lead from paint, chips, and dust can pose serious health hazards if not taken care of properly. Click here for more information on lead in the home

Asbestos

Ask your landlord if there is asbestos in the home. Until the 1970s, many types of building products and insulation materials used in homes contained asbestos. The material may or may not pose a health hazard, depending on its condition, and should always be removed by a professional. Landlords are required to disclose the presence of asbestos that is in an unsafe condition. Click here for more information on asbestos in the home.

Radon

Inhaling indoor air containing radon over a period of many years can increase your risk of getting lung cancer. Ask the owner if the building has been tested for radon. If it has been tested, ask for a copy of the test results. If you have questions about those results, call your state radon office for help. If you do not know whether your building has been tested properly for radon, you can test for radon yourself or ask the owner to test. Click here for more information about radon in the home.

Use Your Bargaining Power!

Before you agree to rent a house or apartment, use your bargaining power to negotiate for greener features like those mentioned in this checklist. Ask your landlord to help you make a change for the better! Check out the information in our Green Home Solutions section, as well as the Energy Conservation and Water Conservation Checklists, for easy, cost-effective steps that landlords can take, including installing a programmable thermostat and low flow fixtures, or purchasing energy-efficient ENERGY STAR^® appliances when they need replacing. A healthier and more efficient rental will add to the apartment's appeal, helping to attract and keep tenants like you, as well as improve the value of their property.

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Once You've Moved In

If you are already living in a rental, there are still many changes you can make to green your living environment and everyday practices even more than you think! And remember to review the "Selecting Your Rental" checklist next time you decide to relocate to a new rental house or apartment.

Reducing Energy Use

Seal-Up Air Leaks

Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around doors and windows, and use storm windows if available. Fireplaces can also be a source of air leaks. If you have one, keep the damper closed unless a fire is going. If you never use your fireplace, ask the landlord to plug the chimney flue.

Reduce Electricity Use

Electronics and appliances

Look for the ENERGY STAR^® and EPEAT label when purchasing new home electronics. To save even more energy plug home electronics into power strips, and turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use. Also, if you own any of the appliances in your apartment (i.e. washer/dryer) consider energy efficient ENERGY STAR® appliances when they need replacing.

Lighting

Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescents (CFLs), which can save three-quarters of the electricity used by incandescent light bulbs. CFLs have a long life, so take them with you when you move out, replacing them with the original bulbs. Also, remember to turn off the lights when they're not needed.

Smart Heating and Cooling

Thermostats

Set your thermostat comfortably low in the winter and comfortably high in the summer. Also, set the temperature back for the periods when everyone is sleeping or no one is home.

Air conditioning alternatives

In some cases, natural ventilation (when air moves through windows or doors) will suffice to meet your cooling needs. When it isn't enough, consider using fans. Window fans are an excellent alternative to help keep you cool while reducing or eliminating the need to use air conditioning. They are inexpensive to purchase and have low energy costs (compared to air conditioning).

Room air conditioning

If you decide to purchase a room air conditioner, consider an ENERGY STAR® qualified model. Be sure the window unit fits tightly in the window so outdoor air is not getting in, and insulate it in the winter with an a/c unit cover, available at hardware stores, to keep heat from escaping.

Lower your water heating temperature

Request that your landlord turn down the temperature of the water heater to the warm setting (120°F). You'll not only save energy, you'll avoid scalding your hands.

Use the sun's heat

During the heating season, open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and close them at night to reduce any chill. During the cooling season, keep the window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar heat gain.

Allow heat to flow

Make sure that heating and cooling registers are not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes.

Choose Green Power

Many utility companies offer a "green power" option, which refers to electricity supplied in whole or in part from renewable and non-polluting energy resources such as wind and solar power. Depending on where you live, you may be able to purchase green power through your electric utility. For more information, go to the Green Power Utility Programs section found here

Conserving Water

Fix leaks

If you notice leaks or drips in fixtures (faucets, showerheads), pipes, toilets, or the hot water heater, tell your landlord. Leaks add up to a significant waste of water and can contribute to the growth of mold. A leaking hot water heater is also a serious energy waster and therefore a money waster.

Use only the water you need

Always use only the water you need and do not let faucets run unnecessarily. For instance, turn the water off while you brush your teeth or shave. In addition, wash only full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine; or set the water level for the size of your load, if possible, to use less water.

Reuse water

Don't pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For instance, when you give your pet fresh water, reuse the old water for your houseplants.

Smarter appliances

If you own some of the appliances in your rental (e.g., washing machine, refrigerator), consider a high-efficiency ENERGYSTAR® labeled model when they need replacing. Appliances that offer cycle and load size adjustments are also more water and energy efficient.

Protecting Your Health

Make your next rental a healthier place to live, by addressing potential air quality issues with the landlord before you sign the lease. Do not rent a home that does not meet local health requirements.

Moisture/mold

Too much moisture in a home can lead to mold, mildew, and other biological growths. This in turn can lead to a variety of health effects ranging from allergic reactions and asthma attacks to more serious illnesses. Click here to learn how to prevent mold and mildew in your home.

Allergies

Clean regularly to reduce dust mites, pollens, animal dander, and other allergy-causing agents. In most cases hardwood flooring is healthier than carpets because carpet traps allergens and pollutants.

Ventilation and air cleaning

Natural ventilation from opening windows and doors supplies fresh air to your home and dilutes or removes stale polluted air; ventilate your house when the weather is temperate and you are not using heating or air conditioning. ENERGYSTAR® portable air-cleaning devices can also help improve indoor air quality. If you suspect a serious air quality problem, speak to your landlord.

Safer household goods and furnishings

Household goods such as those used for housecleaning and pest (e.g., insects, vermin, weeds, and fungus) management can sometimes contain toxic chemicals that may pose risks to human health or the environment. Household furnishings can also contain toxic or hazardous chemicals. Use environmentally preferable products and practice safer pest management.

Choosing Greener Materials & Products

Buy recycled

"Close the loop" by choosing products that include recycled content. These include products ranging from plastic and paper products to household furnishings.

Buy reusable

Choose reusable, rather than disposable, products such as cloth napkins, dishcloths, rechargeable batteries, refillable containers, and washable utensils.

Buy durable products

Choose durable products (including furniture, clothes, housewares, and toys) that are less likely to wear out or break prematurely.

Minimize packaging

Packaging materials account for a lot of the trash we generate, and consume copious resources and energy to produce. Consider buying items in bulk or those with minimal (or no) packaging.

Sustainably grown/harvested materials

Choose sustainably harvested materials made of a rapidly renewable resource (e.g., wool bedding, bamboo fiber clothing) or organically grown materials (e.g., organic cotton bedding).

Less-toxic products

Use less-toxic and non-toxic cleaning products, personal care products, and pest control products. When using a toxic or hazardous product, read the instructions on its label carefully, and use the smallest amount necessary.

Locally produced materials

Using locally or regionally produced materials reduces the demand to ship materials that are produced a long distance from their ultimate use. This helps support the local economy and reduce air emissions.

Reducing Waste

Repair before you replace

Try to repair items in your home before you consider replacement, including tools, vacuum cleaners, and TVs. Donate items you can't repair.

Reuse

Reusing items minimizes the amount of waste produced and discarded, and can save you money! This includes reusing bags for carrying your purchases; containers (if hygienic and practical); and other items throughout your house, for instance wrapping paper, gift bags, and bows. Also, consider borrowing, renting, or sharing items you use infrequently; and donate rather than discard used clothes or equipment you no longer want. Buy your own, re-usable fabric shopping bags.

Recycle

Look into the recycling program in your area, and recycle what you can. Set up recycling receptacles in your kitchen and anywhere else in your house where recyclable waste is generated (e.g., home office), to make it easy to keep recyclable materials separate from the trash. Post an information sheet that lists the locally accepted recyclables on or near your recycling bins for easy reference.

Compost

Compost yard and some kitchen wastes. Compost makes an excellent fertilizer and improves the soil. If you do not have a use for compost, offer your compostable materials to community composting programs or garden projects near you.

Hazardous waste

Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive ingredients are considered to be household hazardous waste. This includes products from paint to pesticides. Carefully read and follow any instructions and safety warnings for products that contain hazardous waste; and follow your local government's instructions for disposing of hazardous waste properly. For more information on household hazardous waste, click here.

Encouraging Your Landlord!

There are many steps renters can take to green their home, but some decisions are ultimately up to the landlord or management company. Encourage your landlord to help you make a change for the better. Check out the information in our Water Conservation Checklist for easy, cost-effective steps they can take, including installing a programmable thermostat and low flow fixtures, or purchasing energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® appliances when they need replacing.