LANDLORD UPDATE – EPC Reform Update for Scottish Landlords
The Scottish Government has published draft regulations proposing that new-style Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) will be introduced from 30 April 2028, following the previously announced delay.
From this date:
New EPCs will use a revised assessment methodology.
They will include a Heat Retention Rating (HRR), indicating how effectively a property retains heat and how well insulated it is.
New EPCs will be valid for five years, rather than the current 10-year period.
A transition period will run until 30 April 2029. During this period, an existing EPC that is less than 10 years old can still be used for the first new letting of a property. However, if the property is let again during the transition period, a new-style EPC will be required.
The delay also affects the proposed Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) for Scotland’s private rented sector. As a result, the previously proposed start date of 1 April 2028 will no longer apply, with the timing of the MEES requirements expected to be revised.
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