EPC Update: Plot Twist!
Once upon a time, there was a plan. All private rented sector (PRS) properties would need to reach an EPC rating of C by the time a new tenant moved in, starting from the year 2025. And if that wasn’t enough to get the adrenaline pumping, all properties—whether changing tenants or not—had to meet this standard by 2028. But wait! It seems someone has hit pause on the EPC deadline music because the 2025 date has now been kicked off the dance floor.
The new game plan is to have all PRS properties meet a new minimum energy efficiency standard by the end of 2028. Consider this a little more time to brush up on your energy efficiency moves!
Not Just for the Landlords
But hold your horses, homeowners! This isn’t just a landlord-exclusive. If you’re living in your own castle (or flat), you’ve got until 2033 to get things in shape and meet that EPC minimum standard. And by 2045, the Scottish Government is saying a big "cheerio" to any polluting heating systems—those gas, oil, and LPG boilers are all getting the boot. So, whether you're a landlord or a proud homeowner, it’s time to start thinking about heat pumps, electric storage heaters etc.
New, Improved, and Slightly Less Stressful Standards
The good news? The latest EPC update isn’t just about adding years to the deadline. The Scottish Government is now consulting on new proposals that would involve introducing different minimum energy efficiency standards by the end of 2028. These standards aim to be more flexible, taking into account less disruptive and lower-cost measures for energy efficiency improvements. The focus will be on steps such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, draught-proofing, heating controls, and hot water cylinder insulation​.
More Frequent EPC Updates?
Now, if you’re thinking that with all this easing of deadlines, there must be a catch—ding, ding, ding! You’re right. As the government is revising the format of the EPC, there’s talk of shortening the validity of an EPC from 10 years to just 5. That means more frequent checks and more updates.
A Delicate Balancing Act
In all seriousness, this updated strategy from the Scottish Government is designed to address the very real challenges faced by the housing sector—balancing the needs of tenants, landlords, and the environment. It’s a careful dance between maintaining housing quality, reducing carbon footprints, and not driving landlords and homeowners up the proverbial wall.
So, as consultations continue, stay tuned for more plot twists and turns.
Grab a cuppa, landlords and homeowners—this saga is far from over!