Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) were first introduced in the Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2008. EPCs provide an indication of how energy efficient a building is and provide advice on how the energy efficiency of the building can be improved. Buildings are rated from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient).
As a landlord, you’ll need an EPC certificate and an EPC rating. It can have a significant impact on how much your property is worth, how much it costs to run, and how popular it is when it comes to finding renters.
Due to recent changes in the legislation and government recommendations, both existing and new landlords should be informed of the new requirements in place, as well as any possible exemptions. Understanding the procedures and current standards required for your property will allow you to avoid fines while still profiting from your residential and commercial properties.
An EPC is valid for 10 years. When it expires you need to update an EPC for a new sale or tenancy. You may also want to update the EPC if you make improvements to the building this means potential buyers or tenants get the most up-to-date information.
There are several things you can do to increase the EPC rating of a property. Any of these modifications will allow the building to save energy and operate more efficiently:
- Insulate your loft with a variety of materials that are excellent at insulating heat.
- Purchase a new boiler; many older boilers are inefficient compared to newer models.
- Install double glazing, an excellent way to reduce noise pollution while keeping the heat in.
Even though an EPC is valid for ten years, any newly rented or sold homes must comply with these additional requirements. It’s important to keep up with new changes in the legislation and guidelines as a landlord so you can get the most out of your assets.
Since 1 April 2020, landlords can no longer let or continue to let properties covered by the MEES Regulations if they have an EPC rating below E, unless they have a valid exemption in place.
From 2025, the Scottish Government wants to make it mandatory for PRS buildings to have an EPC rating of C at the time of lease transition. By 2028, all residential properties will have to meet a minimum level of C.
Staying ahead of the curve allows you to get the most out of your current investments and properties while making all the necessary modifications and changes. Improving your EPC rating and updating your EPC certificate can be a lot easier than you think, so it’s worth investing the time and effort to figure out what changes you should do.
Your letting agencies can, of course, advise and assist you in obtaining the EPCs.