PRS energy efficiency targets ‘could deepen Scotland’s housing crisis’

Anamika Dwivedi

Under current Scottish Government proposals, all rental homes must achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2028 for new tenancies, and by 2033 for existing ones. The SPF argues that the 2028 deadline does not give landlords enough time to make the necessary improvements, particularly in older properties, and could prompt some to withdraw homes from the market.

While the SPF supports the ambition to raise energy standards across the private rented sector, it has urged ministers to provide greater clarity on the new requirements and more financial and practical support to help landlords meet them.

The organisation has called for the EPC C deadline for new lets to be pushed back to 2030, which it says would strike a balance between reducing tenants’ energy bills, tackling fuel poverty, and ensuring that the rental market remains viable.

The proposals are part of the Scottish Government’s forthcoming Heat in Buildings Bill, expected to be introduced to the Scottish Parliament later this year and passed ahead of the 2026 Holyrood elections.

Anamika Dwivedi, senior policy officer at the SPF, said: “While we naturally welcome measures to improve the energy performance of homes within the rented sector, thus saving tenants money and tackling fuel poverty, we fundamentally believe that a more collaborative, balanced and proportionate approach is needed. One that must consider the needs of both landlords and tenants and be realistic about the ability of the sector to prepare for this.

“That is why we are calling for a more achievable commencement date of 2030 for new tenancies. As the risk of not doing so will place significant financial strain on the private rented sector, potentially exacerbating the ongoing housing crisis and limiting the supply of homes to rent.” 

The SPF’s recommendations form part of its response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for the private rented sector.