Social housing landlords have been urged to improve the efficiency of their homes now rather than wait for The Green Deal.

Housing minister Grant Shapps pointed out that landlords could save hundreds of pounds before the new laws even come into place by adding efficiency measures to their home immediately.

By saving landlords money, these additional funds could be invested into new employment opportunities in social housing, such as construction or housing management jobs.

Speaking to insidehousing.co.uk, he said: "Measures such as the green deal will make a huge difference to the lives of tenants, and help landlords in their efforts to make their homes cleaner and greener.

"By making the most of the opportunities that are available now, social landlords can get a head start on upgrading their homes and give an immediate shot in the arm to the local economy."

Shapps added to 24-dash.com that landlords might want to consider increasing rents in order to help fund the costs of adding measures such as loft insulation or draught excluders. Tenants wouldn't be left out of pocket as their utility bills would end up far lower.

The Green Deal, which is due to come into place in around 12 months, will prevent landlords from renting out their home if its efficiency rating is grade E or lower.