On 11th of March, the Scottish Parliament approved the energy efficiency regulations for the private rented sector (PRS) which were due to come into force on 1st April 2020, which would prohibit the letting of properties with new tenancies that fall below the minimum EPC standards from 1st October 2020.
However, on 25th of March, these regulations were prevented from coming into force on 1st April 2020 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, with the commitment to reintroduce them once conditions under the pandemic allowed.
As we emerge from the pandemic, the Scottish Government have now confirmed that the regulations are planned to come into force on 1st April 2021 and will be take effect from 1st April 2022, with any new tenancies let from that date requiring to meet an energy efficiency standard of EPC D rating, or hold a valid exception. All properties will be required to meet this standard of EPC D rating by 31st March 2025.
Adam Al-khateb 10/12/2020