EPC Reforms in 2026 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

In early 2025 major changes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) were announced, and these regulations are confirmed to come into effect on 31st October 2026. The reforms present the most significant change to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland in over a decade, aiming to provide clearer, more meaningful information for households. They key changes are outlined below.

New Domestic EPC Ratings 📝

The following new metrics will replace the single headline rating currently used:

Heat Retention Rating: will measure how well a home retains heat, using an A to G scale.

Heating System Rating: will evaluate heating systems based on emissions, running costs, and thermal efficiency, also displayed on an A to G scale.

Energy Cost Rating: A rebranded version of the existing Energy Efficiency Rating, this will continue to show how improvements in heating systems and insulation impact running costs.

Validity Period Reduced to Five Years 📉

To ensure EPCs remain up to date, their validity period will be shortened from ten years to five for both domestic and non-domestic buildings. While some industry experts suggested a three-year validity for greater accuracy, this reduction is seen as a step in the right direction.

The Shift to Digital EPCs 💻

Scotland will transition to a digital EPC interface that will sit alongside the certificate, allowing users to explore improvement options and see how different measures could affect EPC ratings. A printable/PDF version of the EPC will remain available, but the preference is toward a web-based, interactive presentation of EPC data.

Transition and invalidation of EPCs ❌

From 31 October 2027, only EPCs produced under the new methodology will be valid. This is to ensure consistency and reduces confusion with previous metrics and designs. A one-year transition period will take place allowing existing EPCs to be used for sales, lettings and other trigger events taking place before the go-live date, however after that point the new format must be used. Older certificates will remain accessible in the public register but will be marked as historic and invalid.

Changes to EPC format 🎨

The certificate will also undergo a redesign to improve readability and user experience. Furthermore, the Scottish Government will ensure the new EPC format is closely aligned with the Scottish Home Report. This aims to reduce duplication and improve the clarity of information provided to homeowners and buyers.

Quality Assurance Measures 🕵🏻‍♂️

A team of auditors and inspectors will be recruited who will work alongside local government enforcement authorities to carry out onsite inspections/audits. This auditing process will be reviewed within two years after implementation to assess resourcing, consistency and effectiveness.

Summary

Scotland’s EPC reforms come into effect on 31st October 2026. They introduce a clearer and more informative rating system, improve accessibility through digital formats, and shorten certificate validity to five years. The changes have the potential to make EPCs more accurate, consistent and trusted and can enhance consumer understanding of energy efficiency.

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