Moving into a rented home in Scotland brings many questions about energy costs and what information your landlord must give. Tenants often want clear facts about heating performance, likely running costs and whether the property has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This guide explains in plain language what an EPC shows, what landlords must provide under Scottish law, and practical steps new tenants can take to check energy efficiency and safety documents before signing a tenancy. You will also find how to record evidence, how to raise concerns with a landlord, and where to go for official help if problems continue. The goal is to help renters make informed decisions and avoid unexpected bills.
What an EPC is and why it matters
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives a rated band for the property's energy efficiency and lists simple recommendations to improve performance. A good EPC can indicate lower likely heating bills and show where insulation or heating upgrades would help. Ask to see the EPC and read the summary and recommendations carefully. For official guidance on EPCs see the UK government information on Energy Performance Certificates. [1]
What landlords must provide in Scotland
Under the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 landlords have duties to provide key tenancy information and meet basic standards of repair and safety. That includes making available relevant certificates and information that affect habitability and costs. If a tenancy document or move-in information is missing, ask the landlord in writing for the specific item and a reasonable time to supply it. The 2016 Act sets the legal framework for Private Residential Tenancies in Scotland and explains tenant and landlord rights.
Safety certificates and checks
Although EPCs focus on energy, safety documents such as gas safety records and any recent electrical inspection reports are also important in assessing a property. Request copies of these when you view or before you sign. If a landlord refuses, make a written record of your request and the date.
Checking energy info when you view a property
- Ask to see the EPC before you sign anything so you can compare the band and recommendations.
- Compare the EPC band to likely running costs and ask for recent energy bills where possible.
- Take photos or copies of the EPC and any safety certificates as evidence you were shown them.
- Note any heating, insulation or repair concerns and ask how and when they will be addressed.
Official forms and documents tenants should know
Below are the main official documents or formal items tenants commonly need to check or ask for when moving in. Each entry explains when it is used and gives a practical example.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) — not a tenant form but an official certificate produced by an accredited assessor. When used: shown to prospective tenants to indicate energy rating and improvement recommendations. Example: "Before signing, I asked the landlord to email the EPC so I could check the rating and likely heating costs." See official guidance on EPCs. [1]
- Private Residential Tenancy documentation — governed by the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016. When used: sets the terms of the tenancy and parties' duties. Example: "I checked my written PRT agreement for clauses about heating and landlord repairs before I moved in." Official text and guidance are on legislation and government pages.
- First-tier Tribunal application materials — forms or online applications used to raise unresolved disputes (for example, enforcing repairs or disputing missing documents). When used: after you have asked the landlord and followed complaint steps but the issue is unresolved. Example: "I submitted a repair application with copies of emails and the EPC to the First-tier Tribunal." The tribunal site lists application routes and supporting evidence to include. [3]
How to raise a concern or apply to the tribunal
Start by asking the landlord in writing (email or letter) for the missing EPC or safety certificates and give a clear deadline. Keep copies of your request and any responses. If the landlord does not provide the information or correct a safety issue, you can escalate to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) or seek mediation through a local tenancy support service. When applying to the tribunal, include copies of the tenancy agreement, the EPC, photos, and correspondence with the landlord.
FAQ
- Do I have the right to see an EPC before I move in?
- Yes. Landlords are expected to make an EPC available to prospective tenants so you can assess likely energy performance and running costs.
- What can I do if the landlord won't provide an EPC or safety certificates?
- Ask in writing, keep a record, and if unresolved you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) or get local tenant advice to consider next steps.
- Can I ask for energy improvements to the property?
- You can request improvements; if the landlord refuses and the lack of improvements breaches repair or safety standards, you may raise the issue with the tribunal after following the required complaint steps.
How-To
- Ask the landlord to show the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) before signing any tenancy agreement.
- Compare the EPC band with likely energy costs and, if possible, request recent energy bills to estimate running costs.
- Make dated copies or photos of the EPC and any safety certificates and save emails as evidence you were shown them.
- If documents are missing after a written request, send a formal complaint and set a reasonable deadline for the landlord to respond.
- If the issue is not resolved, contact tenant support or apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) with your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Always ask to see the EPC and any safety certificates before you commit to a tenancy.
- Keep dated copies of documents, bills and correspondence to support any future complaint.
- If a landlord will not supply required information, seek local advice and consider tribunal options.
Help and Support / Resources
- Scottish Government housing pages
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber)
- GOV.UK information on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
