Want to Convince Your Landlord To Install A Green Roof? Use This “Dear Landlord” Letter.
A Green Roof Amenity Space By Urbanstrong’s Installation Partners in Midtown Manhattan
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Whether you are a tenant or condo/co-op unit owner, chances are you can relate to this blog and wish your building had an outdoor green amenity space. We at Urbanstrong receive many requests for tips on how people can convince their landlord, condo board or property manager to invest in developing their rooftop. So, we’ve created this “Dear Landlord” letter summarizing all the ways installing a Green Roof will benefit building owners. Send it off and let us know how it goes!
What Should You Say To Your Landlord? Try This:
Urbanstrong’s 17,000 square-foot Green Roof sits atop Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan’s Union Square.
Dear Landlord,
Nearly two years later, and we are still experiencing the harrowing effects of Covid and its ruthless variants. Despite it all, our families have continued to grow, lovers and friends have moved in and we’ve surrendered our precious floor space to houseplants (voluntarily). Basically, our inhabitable spaces are feeling uncomfortably small. And with Spring right around the corner, what better time to start inquiring about a green rooftop amenity space for our building.
Plus, for many NYC buildings, a green roof may eventually be required by law anyway (NYC LL 92/94 and 97), so bonus points for complying early!
City governments are mostly interested in the environmental benefits of Green Roofs. But Green Roofs also offer a myriad of economical benefits that will only strengthen your portfolio. This aspect isn’t advertised enough and is usually a huge incentive for building owners.
Let’s take a look!
Another lavish rooftop amenity space covered in greenery in TriBeCa, Manhattan by Urbanstrong’s installation team.
What are the Economic Benefits of Green Roofs for Building Owners?
Increase property value and lease out rates $$$$$
Comply with NYC Local Law 92/94 and reduce LL97 fines
Insulate and cool the building (lower heating and cooling costs)
Improve efficiency of rooftop mechanical equipment (HVAC system)
Protect the roof membrane and extend its lifespan up to 40 or 60 years
Integrate green roofs with solar panels to increase electricity production
NYC’s Green Roof Tax Abatement program pays higher rates in select priority neighborhoods. Speciality financing is also available when green roof retrofits are bundled with energy efficiency upgrades that owners are required to make anyway.
The bottom line is that green roofs are a great way for building owners to reduce operating expenses, comply with local laws, improve quality of life for tenants, and re-invest in their building assets.
Solar Integrated Green Roof in Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Why Do Green Roofs Help With Compliance?
Green roofs improve energy efficiency to help you comply with local laws like NYC LL 92/94 and 97.
How Can a Green Roof Improve Your Building’s Profitability?
A smart way of re-investing in your building asset. It will protect your roof membrane, reduce
your energy bills, and boost your property value by creating a unique outdoor amenity space.
Ready to Elevate Your Rooftop?
Urbanstrong will work with you to create the ideal green roof space for your unique needs, goals and budget.
About The Author
Lily Turner is a biophilic designer, project manager, and living wall design-build specialist with extensive experience across the United States. She brings a unique perspective on integrating social, environmental, and economic values into living architecture to create greener, more sustainable urban cities.
Lily collaborates closely with architects, designers, and contractors to deliver tailored living wall solutions that align with budget, design goals, and project scale. She is also the Chair of the Green Roofs for Healthy Cities’ Living Wall Committee and an active member of the Green Plants for Green Buildings Committee, advocating for innovative green infrastructure in the built environment.
