Burlington City Council shows support for rental weatherizations

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Rental homeowners in Burlington would be required to provide improved weatherization under a measure before the Burlington City Council.

The council is considering an ordinance to require all rental housing units to be weatherized. The city says it will improve the quality and comfort of rental units, lower tenants’ utility costs and help the city achieve its climate goals by reducing energy utilization and greenhouse gas emissions.

There are currently incentives available for weatherizing. The city would reimburse rental owners up to 75% of the cost, capping at $2,500.

Councilor Jack Hanson, P-East, says it’s about not wasting money and fossil fuels.

“People are cold in the winter, it’s drafty, it’s not healthy and it’s just not a good quality of life situation, but it’s also an economic burden and it’s also a huge waste of fossil fuels,” Hanson said.

City councilors did warn that the limited number of available contractors will slow down the process. The council is set to vote on this at their March 22 meeting.

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