How to improve your sustainability in property management
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a necessity.
Property managers are increasingly looking for ways to make their properties more sustainable, not only to reduce their environmental impact but also to meet growing tenant expectations and align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.
In this blog, we look at some actionable steps that property managers can take to help them incorporate ESG principles into their daily operations, the benefits of doing so, and how Procurement Hub can support you with becoming more sustainable.
Jump to:
● What is sustainability in property management?
● What are the benefits of being more sustainable in property management?
● How to get started in becoming more sustainable in property management?
● How can Procurement Hub help implement sustainability in property management
What is sustainability in property management?
Sustainability in property management is all about running your properties in a way that’s better for the environment, saves resources, and improves the quality of life for tenants. This also includes making indoor spaces healthier and more comfortable, supporting eco-friendly transportation options, and involving the community.
To summarise, it’s cutting down on energy and water use, managing waste responsibly, and using materials that have less impact on the planet.
What are the benefits of being more sustainable in property management?
Incorporating sustainability when you manage a property might actually have more benefits than you might think that have both immediate and long-term gains, for property owners, tenants, and the environment. Here are some of the key benefits:
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Cost savings: Sustainable buildings use less energy and water, reducing utility bills and maintenance costs, which can lead to significant savings over time.
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Increased property value: Green-certified or sustainable properties are often seen as more attractive to potential buyers and tenants, resulting in higher property values and rental rates.
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Improved tenant satisfaction: Sustainable properties offer better air quality, natural lighting, and comfortable living spaces, which lead to happier, healthier tenants and higher tenant retention rates.
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Environmental impact reduction: Sustainable management reduces a property’s carbon footprint, conserving natural resources and contributing to broader environmental protection efforts.
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Compliance and reputation: As sustainability regulations grow, being proactive in adopting sustainable practices helps properties stay compliant with laws while building a positive reputation in the market.
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Increased retention: Properties with sustainable features, such as energy-efficient appliances and eco-friendly communal spaces, are more likely to attract long-term tenants who value environmentally responsible living. In fact, research shows that green-certified buildings have higher occupancy rates and tenant retention
By applying some of these eco-friendly practices, property managers will be able to enhance the overall efficiency of their buildings, reduce operational costs, and create healthier, more attractive spaces for occupants.
How to get started in becoming more sustainable in property management?
Getting started with sustainability in property management is actually much easier than you think. The market has evolved drastically over the past 10 years, and there are now plenty of environmentally friendly products/solutions available that not only benefit the planet but are also great quality and more cost efficient.
Here are some practical examples of how sustainability can be applied in property management:
Energy-saving upgrades
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Switch to LED lights: Replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs in common areas, hallways, and outdoor spaces to save energy and lower electric bills.
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Smart thermostats: Install programmable thermostats to better control heating and cooling, which reduces energy use.
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Solar panels: If you’ve got rooftop space, installing solar panels can generate renewable energy and cut down on electricity costs.
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Energy-efficient appliances: Upgrade to Energy Star-rated appliances for shared spaces like laundry rooms, kitchens, or even in individual units
Water conservation
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Low-flow fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads, taps, and toilets to use less water without compromising performance.
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Rainwater collection: Collect rainwater to use for things like watering plants or washing outdoor areas.
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Smart watering systems: Set up irrigation systems that adjust based on weather conditions, so you only water landscaping when it’s needed.
Better waste management
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Recycling: Make it easy for tenants to recycle by providing clearly labelled bins for things like paper, plastic, and glass.
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Composting: Set up compost bins for food scraps, which can then be used for landscaping or gardens around the property.
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Donating: Encourage tenants to donate unwanted furniture or electronics instead of throwing them out.
Sustainable building materials
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Green certifications: Look into certifications like LEED or BREEAM if you’re building or renovating, which ensures that your property meets sustainable standards.
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Eco-friendly materials: Use materials like reclaimed wood, recycled steel, or low-VOC paint when updating your property to make it healthier and more sustainable.
Tenant and staff involvement
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Sustainability tips: Share simple tips with tenants on how they can save energy, recycle, and conserve water in their day-to-day lives.
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Incentives: Offer incentives like rent discounts for tenants who adopt eco-friendly practices, such as using energy-efficient appliances or composting.
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Go paperless: Switch to digital communications like emails and online payments to cut down on paper waste.
Encourage Greener Transportation
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Bike-friendly: Provide bike racks and storage to make it easier for tenants to ride bikes instead of driving.
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Electric vehicle charging: Install EV charging stations to support tenants who drive electric cars.
- Promote public transit: Share info on nearby public transit options or offer incentives for tenants who take the bus or train instead of driving.
These examples show that making your property more sustainable doesn’t have to be complicated. Small changes can make a big impact on the environment, save money, and keep tenants happy!
How Procurement Hub help implement sustainability in property management
Procurement Hub is part of Places for People, the largest social enterprise in the UK. We build homes and support communities across the country, so we know first-hand how important sustainability is in the public sector and what can happen when it’s not prioritised.
Through our procurement solutions, we work with a wide range of suppliers—specialist contractors, property service providers, construction experts, and more. This helps us connect businesses, property managers, and public sector organisations with flexible solutions, including ways to make properties more sustainable.
Our experienced team is here to help you explore these options, making it easier to improve your property management while also doing good for the environment.
Let us help you find a procurement solution for your next property.