EPC and energy standards

The short answer

A valid Energy Performance Certificate is needed to market a let and lasts ten years. In older Scottish stock the improvements that move a rating most are insulation, heating controls and heating system efficiency rather than cosmetic work. Scottish energy standards for rented housing have been consulted on repeatedly, so landlords planning major works should check the current position before committing.

What the work involves

Commissioning an assessment from an approved domestic energy assessor, reading the recommendations report, and prioritising measures with the best rating and comfort return.

Rules and responsibilities in Scotland

An EPC is required before marketing and must be shown in adverts. Requirements for minimum ratings in the Scottish private rented sector have been subject to changing policy, so the current standard should be confirmed at the time of planning.

What commonly goes wrong

Assuming a new boiler alone will lift a poor rating in an uninsulated solid-wall flat, and letting an EPC lapse mid-tenancy before re-marketing.

What it usually costs

Indicative ranges only, to help you judge a quote. They are not an estimate for your property — only the business doing the work can give you that.

• An EPC for a flat is a modest fixed cost; the recommendations are where the money sits.
• Loft and floor insulation give the best rating movement per pound in older stock.
• Internal wall insulation in a stone tenement is expensive and needs care to avoid trapping moisture.

What to do, in order

1. 1Check the existing certificate's expiry before marketing.
2. 2Read the recommendation report rather than just the letter grade.
3. 3Prioritise insulation and controls over headline measures.
4. 4Get advice before insulating solid stone walls.
5. 5Re-assess after major works so the improvement is recorded.

Local detail for the Lothians

• Edinburgh's stone tenements are hard to improve without breathability problems, so measures need to suit solid wall construction.
• Conservation area and listed status limits external insulation and window replacement across large parts of the city.
• Newer West Lothian and Midlothian stock usually reaches higher ratings with straightforward measures.

When you need a professional

Use an approved domestic energy assessor, and a surveyor experienced in traditional buildings before insulating solid walls.

Common questions

How long does an EPC last?

Ten years, though a new one is worth commissioning after significant improvements.

Can a listed building be exempt from measures?

Consent constraints affect what can be done. Any exemption depends on the rules in force, so check the current position before planning work.

Related pages

• Heating upgrades in a rental

  Replacing an old system, choosing controls, and timing the work around tenancies.

• Damp and mould in a let

  Diagnosing damp in rented property, the landlord's duty, and handling tenant reports properly.

• The landlord compliance pack

  One folder holding every certificate, date and record a Scottish let needs.