The Scottish Government plans to introduce new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regulations in Parliament during 2025, with an aim to bring them into force in 2026.

These reforms are designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions and provide clearer information for property owners and tenants alike.

Key EPC Changes From 2025

The government has proposed several updates:

1. New domestic rating system.
   The EPC will place greater emphasis on fabric energy efficiency, heating system emissions and running costs, providing insight into how efficiently a property uses energy. Fabric energy efficiency is a measure of how well a building’s fabric reduces heat loss and is key in determining how much energy is required to heat a building.
2. Redesigned certificate.
   EPC certificates will be redesigned based on user testing, offering a more user-friendly format. There will be a trial phase of user testing before regulations officially come in.
3. Shorter validity period.
   Perhaps the most controversial change will see EPC validity drop from 10 years to five years, ensuring more frequent re-assessments and up-to-date data. This measure has been opposed by, among others, the Scottish Association of Landlords, after only 29 per cent of respondents to the 2023 consultation on these changes agreed with it.
4. Dynamic EPC interface.
   A new digital interface will accompany the published EPC, making it easier for landlords to track and update property energy metrics in real-time.
5. Stricter governance.
   Enhanced quality assurance for EPC assessors and approved organisations will help maintain consistency and accountability across all EPC assessments.

Why This Matters for Landlords

Currently, landlords can rent out properties with any EPC rating. However, upcoming legislation, including the anticipated Heat in Buildings bill, will require:

• Minimum energy efficiency standards by 2028 for the private rented sector.
• A complete shift away from polluting heating systems by 2045, which includes phasing out gas boilers.

These new standards mean landlords will need to stay on top of energy efficiency improvements and plan upgrades more frequently.

Although this sounds daunting, proactive measures now will help you avoid last-minute scrambles and potential non-compliance later.

Preparing for the Future

Regular property assessments and upgrades will be crucial for meeting future EPC and heating requirements. Benefits of early compliance include:

• Lower energy costs: More efficient systems mean reduced bills for you and your tenants.
• Higher tenant satisfaction: Comfortable, energy-efficient homes attract quality tenants.
• Regulatory readiness: By planning now, you’ll be ready when minimum standards become mandatory.

How Clan Gordon Supports Landlords

At Clan Gordon, our mission is to guide you through regulatory changes so you can focus on maximising returns.

Our in-house chartered surveyors stay fully informed on the latest EPC rules and heat regulations, ensuring your properties meet evolving standards.

We connect landlords with trusted professionals to carry out energy-efficient improvements smoothly and cost-effectively.

We’ll also keep you updated on any legislative shifts, helping you avoid fines and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Take Action Now

Energy efficiency and compliance are not optional, they’re essential to protecting your investment. Schedule a call with Clan Gordon today to discuss how you can:

• Assess your property’s current EPC rating and heating systems.
• Plan any necessary upgrades.
• Future-proof your investment against upcoming regulations.

By acting early, you’ll not only stay compliant but also enhance your property’s value and tenant appeal. Don’t wait, start planning now to ensure you’re ready for the coming EPC changes.

Read our blog – The Importance of Regular Property Inspections – here.