Energy Performance Certificate Rules for Scottish Rentals

If you rent in Scotland it is important to know your rights around Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). Tenants often ask when a landlord must supply an EPC, what the certificate shows about heating and insulation, and what to do if one is missing. This guide explains, in plain language, when an EPC must be provided, how tenants can request and check a certificate, and the official bodies you can contact if rules are not followed. I describe realistic steps a renter can take, examples of when to use official forms, and how the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) fits into dispute resolution. Practical tips focus on documentation, timing, and safe communication with your landlord.

What an EPC is and why it matters

An Energy Performance Certificate shows a propertys energy efficiency on a standard A-to-G scale and includes recommendations to reduce energy use. For tenants, an EPC helps you judge likely heating costs and whether draughts, insulation or heating are likely to affect habitability. In Scotland, EPCs for domestic properties are recorded on the official register so tenants can check the certificate themselves ^[1].

What landlords must provide in Scotland

• Provide a current EPC when advertising the property or listing it to let, and make it available to prospective tenants.
• Give a copy of the EPC to a tenant on request within 14 days, or sooner if the tenancy start date is imminent.
• Keep an up-to-date certificate and assessor details in the tenancy records so you can show when the EPC was produced.
• Provide any written energy improvement reports or recommendations that were issued with the EPC if the tenant asks to see supporting documents.

How tenants can request or check an EPC

If you have not been given an EPC, ask the landlord or letting agent in writing, keep a copy of your message, and set a clear deadline such as 14 days. If the landlord does not respond, you can use official channels to raise the issue with the housing authority or the tribunal ^[2].

If a landlord wont provide an EPC

• Contact the landlord or letting agent first and request the certificate in writing; keep all records of messages and replies.
• If there is no reply within your stated deadline, send a clear follow-up and state you will seek enforcement through official routes if required.
• If the issue is unresolved, make an application or complaint to the Housing and Property Chamber or the relevant enforcement body and attach your written requests as evidence.

FAQ

Do landlords in Scotland always have to give tenants an EPC?

Yes. When a property is marketed for rent, a current EPC must be available and a tenant can request a copy; you can also check the official Scottish EPC register yourself ^[1].

What if the EPC is old or missing important information?

If the certificate appears out of date or incomplete, ask the landlord for an updated copy or clarification; if they refuse, collect your correspondence and consider applying to the Housing and Property Chamber for advice or enforcement ^[2].

Can I refuse to pay rent if there is no EPC?

Rent should not be withheld as a response to a missing EPC; instead follow formal complaint and tribunal routes and seek advice from the tribunal or a housing advice service.

How-To

1. Contact your landlord or agent in writing requesting the EPC and keep the sent message as evidence.
2. Set a reasonable deadline in your message, for example "please supply a copy within 14 days" and note that date in your records.
3. If there is no reply, check the Scottish EPC register to see if a certificate exists ^[1] and save or print the record.
4. If the landlord still refuses, prepare an application to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) with copies of your requests and the register record ^[2].
5. Submit the tribunal application following the official guidance and forms; include contact details, a clear statement of facts, and the evidence you collected.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants can request and must be given a copy of the EPC when renting in Scotland.
• Make written requests with a clear deadline and keep copies of all correspondence.
• If a landlord refuses, apply to the Housing and Property Chamber with your evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Housing and Property Chamber (First-tier Tribunal for Scotland)
• [2] Scottish EPC Register
• [3] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016

1. [1] Housing and Property Chamber (First-tier Tribunal for Scotland)
2. [2] Scottish EPC Register
3. [3] Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016