Private rental homes in Scotland may soon face stricter energy efficiency rules under new proposals aimed at reducing fuel poverty and cutting emissions linked to climate change.
The Scottish Government has outlined plans to introduce a Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) for privately rented properties. This would require homes to meet a revised EPC Heat Retention Rating (HRR) of band C for new tenancies starting in 2028. All existing privately rented homes would need to comply by 2033.
Scotland had around 300,000 privately rented homes in 2022. Under the new rules, landlords would be prohibited from letting out properties that fall below the minimum efficiency standard unless necessary upgrades have been made.
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) system is also set for a revamp in 2026. The new framework will offer clearer details about a property’s energy fabric, the performance and emissions of its heating system, and estimated running costs.
The government has indicated that certain exemptions will apply. Landlords unable to obtain third-party permissions or those who would risk damaging the property’s structure by making changes may be excluded from the requirement.
These new proposals come after earlier plans to regulate energy standards in the private rented sector were shelved in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
A spokesperson from the Scottish Government emphasised the importance of balancing environmental goals with efforts to alleviate fuel poverty. They noted that improving energy efficiency is one of the main ways to achieve both aims.
Statistics show that households living in more energy-efficient homes tend to experience lower levels of fuel poverty. While many privately rented properties already perform well under the current EPC ratings, a significant number still require improvement.
The government aims to close this gap by encouraging landlords to invest in energy upgrades, ultimately ensuring tenants have warmer, more affordable homes.
This initiative also supports Scotland’s broader objective of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2045.
The changes would place additional responsibilities on landlords, especially those with older properties that may require more substantial upgrades.
By introducing the new EPC targets in stages, the government hopes to give landlords time to adapt, while steadily improving the overall energy performance of the private rental sector.
These proposals are currently open for consultation, allowing stakeholders to share their views and help shape the final legislation.
Landlords and property managers are being encouraged to stay informed and prepare for potential changes that could impact their letting practices in the coming years.
According to the Scottish Government, the proposed changes aim to enhance the quality of homes, lower energy bills for tenants, and support the wider move towards cleaner heating solutions. These improvements will be further advanced through the upcoming Heat in Buildings Bill, which is expected to be introduced later this year.
The government also highlighted the added health benefits of these upgrades. By installing better insulation and improving overall energy efficiency, the risk of health issues caused by cold and damp living conditions can be reduced.
Support remains available for those looking to make the transition. The Scottish Government continues to provide a variety of schemes and resources to help individuals and organisations – including private landlords – shift towards clean heating systems and implement energy-saving improvements.