The Scottish Government was due to introduce the EPC regulations by April 2021. However, on 15th January 2021, they announced that this will be postponed due to the ongoing pandemic and the need to minimise non-essential contact. This has been done to prioritise the safety of tenants and workers, and to reduce the burden on local authorities who are focusing on frontline emergency responses.
When the regulations are made law, the requirements are expected to be:
- EPC of D at change of tenancy from 1 April 2022
- All rental properties must have an EPC rating of D by 31 March 2025
The regulations will provide for some exemptions, including where:
- it is not technically feasible to carry out improvements
- where other owners in a block of flats refuse consent to do work to common parts of the building
- where tenants refuse consent for work
- where permission to carry out work to a property which is listed or in a conservation area can’t be obtained
- where the cost of improvements needed exceeds £10,000.
Why it pays to be an energy efficient Landlord?
Apart from ensuring compliance, there are lots of other benefits to making your properties more energy efficient.
- Energy efficient properties can reduce potential problems like damp and condensation.
- Cosy, efficient homes are more attractive to tenants, which could also lead to a lower turnover of tenants and void periods.
- Your tenants could benefit from lower energy bills, reducing their risk of fuel poverty.
- You’ll be playing your part in tackling Scotland’s carbon emissions.
Here at 1Let, we are committed to playing our part by actively encouraging our Landlords to improve energy efficiency now. This in turn will benefit them, their tenants and will ensure hassle free compliance with the new regulations when the time comes.