To value sustainability is a choice, and to make this choice is a small step to making big differences. When it comes to making changes in a rental property, big or small, the landlord gets to hold maximum rights. A tenant indeed can not implement many changes in his rental home. However, he can definitely make efforts, even if small, in the direction of sustainability, which we’re sure the landlord won’t mind.
So, whether you’re taking rooms or homes for rent near Berkeley CA, here are a few tips to help you make sustainable changes in your tenancy.
Tips To Make Your Living Sustainable As A Tenant
Speak To Your Landlord
Since being a tenant, you do not have 100% control over the rental property, you can only request to make sustainable changes. Voicing your concerns may not always bring any change, however, can surely create awareness. If yours is a good landlord, you won’t have to make much effort to together create a sustainable space. Start by requesting to fix essential things (if not already) like leaking taps, pipes, renewing electrical wires, etc.
Bring home Sustainable Home Decor Products
Once you shift to your rental home, you will need things to furnish and decorate it. Here, you can choose second-hand products or home decor made from sustainable materials for a start. Shop online and offline markets that offer such furnishings. However, if you couldn't find old furniture, opt for ethical and sustainable furniture from niche brands. Look for nearby markets when searching for Berkeley homes for rent, to be prepared beforehand.
Save Water & Electricity
This is an essential responsibility of every individual on this planet and not just a tenant. What you can do is start taking shorter showers, choose specific days for laundry, and don’t wash unless you have a full load of dirty clothes. Also, use energy-efficient appliances for dishwashing, grinding, cooking, washing clothes, etc. These appliances require fewer fossil fuels and help you save money. Moreover, for lighting, replace overhead lights with lamps to cut costs, and switch to LEDs to save energy. Turn them off when not in use, and make sure to make the most use of natural lights.
Minimize Excess Heating And Cooling
Letting in air, hot or cool, will help you minimize the use of air conditioners and fans in summers and heaters in winters. If you still need to use heating or cooling appliances make sure that they are energy-efficient. Also, turn them off when not in use to prevent energy wastage.
Grow Food At Home
One of our favorites. Growing food at home can be fun and also sufficient if you are opting to live alone or with a roommate. This will also let you eat freshly grown and organic food, with no pesticides inside, hence eating well and saving the environment at the same time. A kitchen garden can be your best buddy for healthy eating.
Wrapping Up
At Raj Properties, when you look for rental homes, you can request a home tour before finalizing one. Visiting the property and meeting the landlord will give you an opportunity to discuss your sustainability ideas with him. Try not to miss it.
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