Energy Efficiency Rules for Scottish Rental Homes

Many tenants in Scotland are affected by energy efficiency standards that require certain rented homes to meet minimum standards. This guide explains what tenants can expect, what landlords must do under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and related regulations, and practical steps if a property seems inefficient or unsafe. It covers how to check an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), when landlords must carry out work or provide exemptions, and how to raise concerns with your landlord or the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber). Written for renters and tenants with clear examples, it helps you protect comfort, reduce bills and understand your rights without legal jargon.

What the rules require

Landlords in Scotland must comply with tenancy and housing standards set by the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and other regulations. ^[1] These rules set out duties on landlords to keep a property in a reasonable state of repair and to provide required documents such as an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) when a tenancy starts. If a landlord does not act, a tenant can first raise the issue directly and, if unresolved, apply to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) to seek enforcement. ^[2]

EPCs and what tenants should check

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a property is and suggests improvements. You can ask to see the EPC at the start of a tenancy and use it to check whether suggested work would improve comfort or reduce bills. Official guidance explains how EPCs work and when landlords must provide them. ^[3] Keep a copy of the EPC and any correspondence about efficiency so you have clear records if you need to raise the matter.

Official forms and how to use them

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) — not a form numbered like a tribunal form, but an official document provided by an accredited assessor; request a copy from your landlord when your tenancy begins. Example: send a short email asking "Please send the EPC provided for this property" and save the reply for records.
• Written notice or request to landlord — there is no single national template number, but a clear written request (email or letter) that states the problem, what you want done and a reasonable deadline is the practical first step. Example: "The heating is insufficient and I ask that you arrange inspection within 14 days."
• Application to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) — use the tribunal's application webpage and supporting form(s) to apply for enforcement of repairing standards or related remedies; include the EPC and copies of your correspondence as evidence. Example: apply online or by post to the tribunal and upload your documents or send copies as instructed on the tribunal site. ^[2]

FAQ

Can my landlord refuse to improve a property for energy efficiency?

Landlords may lawfully refuse some requests but must still meet statutory duties; if a refusal means the property fails to meet required standards you can request action in writing and, if needed, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for enforcement. ^[2]

Do I have to pay for landlord repairs that improve energy efficiency?

No. Landlords are generally responsible for repairs and improvements required by law; you should not be charged for work that the landlord is obliged to carry out under the tenancy or by statute.

What evidence should I collect before contacting the tribunal?

Collect the EPC, dated photos, copies of emails or letters to the landlord, a contemporaneous log of heating or safety issues, and copies of any replies you receive. Clear evidence helps the tribunal assess your application quickly.

How-To

1. Raise the problem with your landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for action, for example "Please arrange inspection within 14 days."
2. Keep copies of the EPC, photos and communications; assemble them into a single file to upload if you need to apply to the tribunal.
3. If the landlord does not act, follow the tribunal's application process on the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) website and include your evidence and a clear statement of what you want the tribunal to order. ^[2]
4. After applying, respond promptly to any tribunal requests for further information and attend any hearing or provide a statement if asked.

Key Takeaways

• Ask for and keep the EPC and any communications about repairs.
• Start with a written request to your landlord and allow a reasonable deadline.
• If unresolved, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) with clear evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
• [2] First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
• [3] Scottish Government guidance on housing and rented properties

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1. [1] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
2. [2] First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
3. [3] Scottish Government guidance on housing and rented properties