The Glasgow Property Blog

Will your rental property meet the proposed minimum Energy efficiency standard?

The Scottish Government is proposing to bring in a minimum energy efficiency standard for the Scottish private rented sector.  For 10 years now, all rental properties are required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before they can be advertised.

The Scottish Government has released a consultation document aiming for all rental properties to have an EPC rating of C by 2030 where this is technically feasible and cost effective.
The government is planning to legislate in 2019 to introduce a minimum standard in the PRS. The proposal will require properties to have at least an EPC rating of E at a change of tenancy from 1 April 2020 and in all properties by 31 March 2022; and to have an EPC rating of D at a change of tenancy from 1 April 2022 and in all properties by 31 March 2025. 

While costs to achieve the standards will vary across dwellings depending on their built form, fuel type, and current levels of heating system efficiency and insulation, the government estimates that the median cost in the private sector will be in the region of £3,500, which means that half of all properties can be upgraded at a cost of £3,500 or less.

What should you do?

We would advise landlords that if you are planning improvements to your rental property you consider the likely energy efficiency benefit.  So if you need to replace an old boiler, install double glazing or improve insulation, these should all help you achieve an improved EPC rating. If your property has an EPC rating of E or lower, we can help advise you on how to improve the efficiency.

The consultation can be found at:  https://consult.gov.scot/better-homes-division/energy-efficient-scotland.  The deadline for responding is 27July 2018.

If you would like further information or discuss how we can help you, please get in touch.