News

UK’s Private Rental Crisis and What Needs to Change Now

The quality of housing in the UK’s Private Rented Sector (PRS) is under scrutiny. A new report from the National Retrofit Hub highlights major concerns, with tenants struggling to heat inefficient homes and landlords facing financial barriers to making necessary upgrades. The National Retrofit Hub: Driving Change 🚀 The National […]

How EPCs Help Fight Fuel Poverty

As energy prices climb, many struggle to keep their homes warm, impacting both comfort and health. Energy assessments play a crucial role in identifying properties with high energy costs and recommending improvements to reduce bills and enhance efficiency. Understanding Fuel Poverty in the UK 🌐 Fuel poverty occurs when households […]

The Ideal Validity Period for EPCs

The UK government is reviewing how long Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) should remain valid as part of its Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings consultation. Currently, EPCs last for 10 years, but many experts argue that this period is too long, as properties can change significantly within that […]

EPC changes in 2026 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

The Scottish Government has announced major changes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) that are set to take effect in 2026. Key updates include the introduction of new ratings, a redesigned certificate format, and a shortened validity period. New Domestic EPC Ratings 📝 The following new metrics will replace previous classifications […]

UK Mortgage Lenders using EPC

From 2025, an increasing number of high street lenders are expected to include EPC ratings in assessing mortgage affordability. EPCs Explained 🔍 Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a requirement for all homes that are being sold or rented. They provide a rating from A to G, that shows how energy-efficient […]

Summer Update 2024

This Summer Update 2024 provides an insight into how we have been helping our community over the last few months. ▪️ Energy Loan and Grant Applications 🔠 We have been supporting Homeowners and Landlords with their applications so that they can access funding for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy […]

Lead Testing in Scotland

Lead Testing in Scotland has become an important health and safety consideration in the residential housing sector. The changes target lead in water systems and enforcing stricter guidelines for safe drinking water in rented properties. Let’s explore what this means for landlords. Understanding the Changes 👨‍🔧 Scotland’s updated Repairing Standard […]

Heat in Buildings Bill

The Scottish government is taking action towards a greener future with its recent consultation on the Heat in Buildings Bill. This legislation includes proposals aimed at enhancing energy efficiency standards in both the domestic private rented sector and privately owned homes, while also targeting the removal of polluting heating systems […]

Legionella in Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

The presence of legionella in water systems poses significant health and safety risks and an understanding of the regulations of legionella in Scotland and proactive measures are required to mitigate these risks. Combining insights from recent outbreaks and legislative frameworks, this article aims to guide landlords and individuals towards ensuring […]

Energy Efficiency Plans 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

The Scottish Government has taken a decisive step towards achieving its net zero targets. It is proposing new energy efficiency laws aimed at reducing emissions in homes and buildings. This progressive approach stands in contrast to the UK Government’s recent scaling back of net zero commitments. In a bid to […]