An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a home is and what improvements could cut bills. For tenants and renters in Scotland, understanding EPC rules helps you know what landlords must provide, when they need to act, and how to challenge missing or out-of-date certificates under Scottish tenancy law.[1] This guide explains simple steps to request an EPC, how to raise concerns with the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)[2], and what official forms or registers to use so you can act with confidence. Where possible, keep written records of correspondence and copies of certificates to support any complaint.
What is an EPC and why it matters
An EPC rates a property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and lists recommended improvements. Tenants should be given access to a valid EPC so they can understand likely heating costs and basic safety or efficiency issues. EPCs for Scottish properties are recorded on the national register for verification and historical checks.[3]
What landlords must provide
- Provide a valid EPC document to new tenants before move-in.
- Give a copy of the EPC to any prospective tenant on request before you agree a tenancy.
- Carry out repairs that affect heating and insulation where they breach basic habitability or make improvements recommended on the EPC, depending on your tenancy terms.
- Keep records and provide other tenancy documents on request, such as the Private Residential Tenancy agreement or any written notices.
- Ensure the property complies with energy efficiency or minimum standards required by Scottish law where these apply.
What to do if an EPC is missing or out of date
- Ask the landlord in writing for a copy of the current EPC and set a clear deadline for a response.
- If there is no reply, contact the landlord or letting agent by recorded delivery or email so you have proof of the request.
- If the landlord refuses or the matter is unresolved, consider applying to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) for dispute resolution.
- Use the Scottish EPC Register to check the certificate yourself and take screenshots or print pages as evidence for any complaint.
Official forms and where to find them
Below are the main official documents tenants may use when dealing with EPC or tenancy issues in Scotland, with practical examples.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) — no form number: the certificate itself is issued by an accredited assessor. Example: ask your landlord to provide the EPC page showing the rating so you can compare heating costs before you sign a tenancy. Verify via the Scottish EPC Register.[3]
- Application forms for the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber): official application and guidance documents. Example: if your landlord will not provide an EPC and refuses to engage, you can use the tribunal application form to ask for a remedy or order; include copies of your written requests and any EPC evidence.[2]
- Model Private Residential Tenancy terms and guidance (Scottish Government): template tenancy terms and guidance explain obligations on landlords and tenants. Example: check your tenancy agreement against the model terms to see whether landlord responsibilities around repairs or documentation are clearly set out.[1]
FAQ
- Do landlords in Scotland have to provide an EPC?
- Yes. Landlords must make an EPC available for a rented property and provide a copy to prospective tenants on request; you can verify the certificate on the Scottish EPC Register.
- Can I withhold rent if my landlord does not provide an EPC?
- No. Withholding rent is usually not advised. Instead, request the certificate in writing, keep records, and if necessary apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for dispute resolution.
- How do I get a copy of the EPC for my rented home?
- Ask your landlord in writing and allow a reasonable deadline. If you do not receive it, check the Scottish EPC Register and use that evidence when contacting the tribunal or local authorities.
How-To
- Check your tenancy agreement and note any clauses about EPCs or landlord responsibilities.
- Write to your landlord requesting a copy of the current EPC and keep a dated copy of that message.
- Verify the EPC on the Scottish EPC Register and save screenshots or prints as evidence.
- If the landlord does not comply, complete the official application form for the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) and submit supporting documents.
Key Takeaways
- Tenants should always ask for and keep a copy of the EPC for their rented home.
- If a landlord refuses, use official registers and the Housing and Property Chamber to resolve the issue.
- Keep written records of requests, replies, and any certificates to support a complaint.
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
- Scottish EPC Register
- Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016
