Frequently Asked Questions for Domestic EPCs

The Scottish Government has published a routemap for Energy Efficient Scotland which sets out an aim to make all homes and buildings greener, warmer and more energy efficient. All buildings in Scotland will need to meet energy efficient targets and residential properties may require a band C by 2040 where technically feesible and cost-effective. 

This is a big challenge financially and technically.

The Scottish Government has announced that minimum EPC ratings will be introduced in Scotland from April 2020 onwards.
EPC band     E     D
New privately let tenancies     1 April 2020     April 2022
All privately let properties     March 2022     March 2025
* From 1 April 2020 and new privately let tenancy will require a minimum EPC rating of a band E. By March 2022 all privately let properties will require to have a band E. From April 2022 any new tenancy will require the property to have at least a band D. By March 2025 all privately let properties will require to have a band D.
Regulations: Energy Efficiency (Domestic Private Rented Property) (Scotland) Regulations 2020
We understand that there are going to be further minimum EPC ratings for residential properties in Scotland and these may be as follows:
EPC band
C
Upon change of tenancy or ownership     2025
All properties     2028

Where the EPC rating of a property doesn not meet the required standard then a private landlord will no longer be allowed to rent the property unless the property is improved to meet the minimum EPC standards in place at that time.

Residential landlords are responsible for making improvements to residential properties. There may be   loans and grants available for energy efficiency improvements through the Energy Saving Trust.

Landlords should ensure that any funding assistance is appropriate for their needs.

Where it is not "technically feesible and cost effective" to improve the EPC rating of a residential property then a residential property may not require to meet that standard. In practise we no of no case where this has been done.

The landlord will be required to provide evidence of this along with their energy assessor.

Introduction

When searching for a new rental property, it is essential to be aware of your rights as a tenant, especially when it comes to energy efficiency and environmental impact. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) play a crucial role in providing valuable information about a property's energy efficiency and potential improvements. In this article, we will discuss when you should have access to an EPC, what to do if you haven't been provided with one, and your responsibilities as a tenant.

Access to an EPC

As a prospective tenant, you should have access to the EPC and Recommendations Report when you first inquire about renting a property. Additionally, landlords are required to display the energy rating in any advertisements in commercial media. Once you become a tenant, you should also be given a copy of the EPC and Recommendations Report.

EPC for Room Rentals

If you are renting a room with shared access to facilities like the kitchen, bathroom, and living area, landlords are not obligated to provide an EPC in this situation.

EPC Renewal

If you have renewed your lease, landlords are not required to provide you with a new EPC. EPCs are only mandatory for new tenants.

Missing EPC - What to Do

If you are a prospective or new tenant and your landlord fails to provide you with the EPC or Recommendations Report, you should report this to the Local Authority. Landlords are legally obligated to provide this information, and failure to do so may result in fines.

Paying for EPC

Landlords cannot charge prospective tenants for providing the EPC; it must be made available "free of charge." If your landlord insists on payment, you should report this to the Local Authority.
Making Improvements Suggested on the EPC
As a tenant, you should discuss any potential improvements suggested on the EPC with your landlord. Making changes to the property without their consent is not advisable.

Discrepancies in Energy Costs

The energy costs displayed on an EPC are based on standard assumptions, such as occupancy patterns and usage. The EPC does not account for individual variations, such as energy used for cooking or appliances. Its purpose is to enable a comparison between properties on a like-for-like basis.

Multiple EPCs for Non-Domestic Buildings

In the case of non-domestic buildings, such as retail units, where parts of the building were designed or altered to be used separately, multiple EPCs may have been produced for each part rather than the whole building. This is acceptable and can be beneficial, especially if different parts of the building have distinct construction types.

Conclusion

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are crucial documents that provide valuable insights into a property's energy efficiency and potential improvements. As a tenant, you have the right to access an EPC when inquiring about a rental property and as a new tenant. Landlords have a legal obligation to provide the EPC "free of charge." If you encounter any issues related to EPCs, it is essential to know your rights and responsibilities and report any violations to the Local Authority for appropriate action.