THE green credentials of a property have become more important to eco-conscious renters.

Some 42 per cent of tenants consider the environmental impact of a property before signing on the dotted line.

Half of those living in London believe that green-living initiatives are important, according to expert research by property analysts LSL.

“Whether it’s to reduce their energy consumption, save money or make a positive impact on the environment, it’s good to see that tenants consider the greenness of a building an important factor in their rental decision,” said Martyn Alderton, national lettings director at LSL.

“As we continue to build more and more homes for our growing population, it’s vital that we do whatever we can to create a more sustainable future for our planet and use our resources as carefully as possible.”

The survey also highlighted a relationship between the amount of rent paid and the importance of a building’s green credentials.

On average, those who pay more rent per month are also more likely to consider a building’s environmental credentials important, with 63 per cent of correspondents who pay between £1,351 and £1,600 per month expressing this view, compared to only 37 per cent of those paying £350 or less.

Along with the building’s environmental impact, green spaces were also an important consideration for many tenants.

Of these, some 32 per cent were interested in a communal garden and 30 per cent were willing to pay more for a vegetable allotment.