In Scotland, Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s) are required for a variety of reasons, relating primarily to the rental and sale of real estate.
As a proprietor of a privately rented property in Scotland, you should be aware of the Energy Efficiency (Domestic private rented property) Regulations of 2020.
By March 31st, 2022, all privately rented properties are required to have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of at least E, and by March 31st, 2025, at least band D. The pandemic of Covid-19 has temporarily delayed the implementation of these regulations, which were originally scheduled to go into effect on April 1st 2020.
This post will explain why you require an EPC in Scotland.
Do I require an EPC if I live in Scotland?
Yes, in order to sell or rent a property in Scotland, an EPC is required by law. EPC’s are certificates that rate the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G being the least.
The certificate will be valid for ten years and includes recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades, the expense of implementing them, and the potential savings each upgrade could produce. It also estimates the cost of heating and powering the property.
As a landlord, it is down to you to ensure that your property satisfies the Scottish government’s minimum energy efficiency standards. The government want to ensure that everyone in Scotland has access to warm, affordable housing, which makes the EPC regulations particularly pertinent in Scotland.
Where do I get an EPC?
Find a local domestic energy assessor in your area. They can provide an EPC assessment, as well as recommendations for enhancing the energy efficiency of the building. You can do this by looking up your postcode using the governments find an energy certificate page.
In Scotland, landlords who violate EPC regulations risk obtaining civil penalties from the local government. It is important for you to ensure you property has a valid EPC. Alternatively, you can contact Consumer Rights, who can help navigate you through the process.
How much will it cost to bring my property into compliance?
The cost of bringing your property into compliance will depend on the properties characteristics and the quantity of work necessary. Home energy Scotland offers free, unbiased cost estimates and advice on energy-efficient home improvements.
The Scottish government offers grants and loans without interest to assist landlords in making their properties more energy-efficient, less costly to heat, and more comfortable for tenants.
As a proprietor in Scotland, you must be aware of the EPC regulations and ensure that your property meets the minimum energy efficiency requirements.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, obtaining an EPC is a legal requirement if you’re intending to buy or sell a property in Scotland. It ensures compliance with regulations and provides valuable information on the energy efficiency of your property.
Therefore, whether you are a proprietor or a potential buyer, obtaining an EPC is a necessary step on the Scottish real estate market. Not having an EPC can have disastrous consequences if you are a landlord or homeowner, so it is essential you follow the rules.
People also asked...
What are Scotland's new EPC regulations?
The new regulations will require all privately rented properties to achieve a minimum EPC rating of ‘C’ by 2025, assuming it is feasible and cost-effective, particularly during a change of tenancy.
For any remaining properties that cannot satisfy this requirement by 2025, the deadline will be extended to 2028.
What is the cost of an EPC in Scotland?
Typically, the price of an Energy Performance Certificate is between £35 and £120 (including VAT). The price depends on a variety of factors, including the type of home you own and the number of chambers.
What exceptions are there for an EPC in Scotland?
There are some building categories that do not require an EPC. These are freestanding structures (other than residences) with a floor area of less than 50 square metres. temporary structures intended for use for less than two years.
When did EPC become effective in Scotland?
The legislation instituting EPC’s, The Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2008, came into effect at the end of 2008, which means that EPC’s have been available for all residential property transactions since January 2009.
In Scotland, what is the penalty for failing to have an EPC?
A Absence of an EPC or omission of the EPC rating in commercial media may result in a £500 penalty charge notice for residential structures and a £1,000 penalty charge notice for non-residential structures. Additionally, local authorities (enforcement authorities) may contemplate criminal action.
Useful Resources
- UK Government – Energy Performance of Buildings Certificates: notes and definitions
- EPC Home – The History Of The EPC
- Historic England – Energy Performance Certificates
- Elmhurt Energy – EPC’s explained
- Department for communities & local government – A guide to energy performance certificates for the marketing, sale and let of dwellings
- Scottish Government – Energy Performance Certificates: introduction
- Scottish Government – Building Standards Division
- Scottish land and estates – Energy Efficient Scotland
- Scottish Government – The Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations
- Citizens Advice Scotland – The Estimated Costs of Improving the Energy Efficiency of Scotland’s homes
ECO4 Support Available:
- Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy – Energy Company Obligation
- Ofgem – Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Guidance: Delivery V1.1
- Ofgem – Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
- UK Government – Help from your energy supplier: the Energy Company Obligation
- Which? – Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
Other Support Available:
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