Vacant property management for commercial landlords
27 January 2026
Commercial properties present a unique challenge for landlords when they’re vacant – no rental income and the potential for high, unnecessary energy costs. For a commercial landlord, unoccupied commercial spaces can quickly become costly — with no rent coming in but energy still being used behind the scenes. Managing this energy use in empty buildings is a key part of effective vacant property management.
The good news? Smart, proactive decisions can improve energy performance, reduce waste, and make your commercial property more attractive to future tenants.
Why energy efficiency matters during vacancy
Even when empty, commercial buildings continue to consume energy. Heating systems may still run, lighting might stay on overnight, and essential services like security systems may need power around the clock. Without proper commercial energy management, these costs can escalate quickly. Proactively managing your energy use helps:
- Reduce operating costs
Every kilowatt saved during vacancy boosts your overall return on investment. - Boost your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating
A higher EPC rating can increase your property’s value and help commercial property landlords stand out in a competitive market. - Attract eco-conscious tenants
- More businesses are prioritising sustainability. Energy‑efficient vacant property management can help your commercial property be more attractive to tenants.
- Future-proof your investment
Keeping your emissions and running costs as low as possible will only become more important in the years ahead. The changes you make now will put you in a stronger position tomorrow.
In short, your vacant property is either costing you money or preparing to make you more. So where should you begin?
Top energy-saving tips for vacant properties
These practical steps can help commercial landlords reduce waste and save money during vacant periods:
1. Monitor energy use with smart meters
You’ll see exactly when and how your commercial property consumes energy, making it easier to spot ways to save. Future bills will be based on actual use, so you won’t have to worry about overpaying on estimated bills.
2. Switch to LED lighting (and switch it off)
LED bulbs are more efficient than traditional lighting and last longer. Combine this with timers or motion sensors to ensure lights are never left on unnecessarily. A simple win for vacant property management.
3. Service boilers and HVAC systems
Heating and cooling equipment are two of the biggest energy expenses. Regular maintenance can improve efficiency, reduce breakdown risk, and ensure the building is ready for new tenants.
4. Seal windows and doors
Investing in draft-proofing can significantly reduce unnecessary heating. Even during vacancy, frost protection measures or controlled heating can be more efficient if heat loss is minimised.
5. Use programmable thermostats
Stay in control of a heating schedule and automate where possible so equipment only operates when needed to avoid unnecessarily high bills.
Managing energy contracts between tenants
When a property becomes vacant, landlords often unintentionally slip onto “deemed” energy rates, which can be much more expensive than fixed tariff rates. At British Gas, we simplify this with a choice of tariffs to ensure you don’t pay more than necessary.
- Fixed Tariff Plans – ideal if your lease includes utilities in the service charge, providing predictable costs.
- 30-Day Rolling Plans – a flexible option for short-term vacancies, so you’re not locked into a long-term commitment while searching for a new tenant.
VoidCare support for vacant periods
We also offer a free VoidCare service which helps housing providers save time and money by managing energy needs during the void period - from when one tenant moves out until the next moves in. It reduces admin, prevents unexpected costs, and makes managing vacant property energy use simpler and more efficient.
Boost your property’s appeal with EV Charging
More tenants (and their customers) are driving electric vehicles, making on-site EV charging a valuable selling point. By installing EV charging stations, you can elevate your property’s appeal and attract future tenants. We offer smart, scalable EV solutions with our British Gas Communal EV charging tariff - which could reduce the costs of Communal Charging by over 50%* for commercial landlords.
Through our partnership with Zaptec, we offer smart, scalable EV solutions outlined below for commercial landlords.1
Next steps for your vacant property management
Vacant periods don’t have to mean wasted energy and high bills. With the right tools and strategies, you can turn downtime into an opportunity for long-term efficiency and value. From smart energy plans to sustainable upgrades, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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Additional information
This is a one year energy contract, applicable for the Commercial Smart Meter that provides electricity to a Communal Charger. This offer does not include Communal EV Chargers that utilise electricity from a Landlords Supply that provides Electricity to other aspects of Regulated and Non-Regulated Energy Supply for a Landlord in a multiple dwelling building.
Standard British Gas business terms and conditions apply. Saving based on comparison between the Zapmap Public Charging Index rate and Communal EV Charging Tariff at time of writing (October 2025).
