New minimum EPC proposals
The Scottish Government has today published a consultation and draft regulations to introduce a minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) in the PRS in Scotland. This is the 7th consultation in just over 8 years relating to energy efficiency in the PRS in Scotland.
The latest plan is to require a MEES equivalent to EPC C from 1/4/2028 (for new tenancies) and by 2033 for all remaining PRS properties (the draft regulations refer to 1/4/2033 but the consultation refers to 31/12/2033 so some clarification needs to be sought on this date). It is proposed that the standard will require properties to have an EPC with a heat retention rating (HRR) of C. The HRR is not on current EPCs but will be the headline metric on the new style EPCs expected to be introduced from next year and will show how well insulated a property’s roof, walls, windows and floor are. The alternative of using a list of measures to demonstrate compliance (as proposed in the last consultation) is no longer being considered. Apparently about 80% of properties with a current EPC rating of C will achieve a HHR of C on the new EPC.
There will be exemptions available to ensure that landlords will not be required to install measures which are technically unsuitable for the type of property they own, for which they cannot attain the required consent from tenants, neighbours or planning authorities, or which would be prohibitively expensive (a total expenditure cap of £10,000 is proposed).
You can read the consultation/draft regulations and respond to the consultation at https://consult.gov.scot/energy-and-climate-change-directorate/private-rented-minimum-energy-efficiency-standard/. The deadline for responses is 29 August 2025.