Private rented housing energy efficiency: consultation assessment (part one)

4. Scottish Firms Impact Test

If the energy efficiency of their dwellings falls below the standard set by regulations, landlords in the private rented sector will be expected to obtain a minimum standards assessment report which sets out the required upgrades, carry out these upgrades, and provide proof to the local authority of compliance (for example by lodging a post-upgrade EPC to show their dwelling's rating). This obligation will arise at either the point of rent or the backstop date, whichever is the sooner. The potential costs for landlords have been set out above, although the final cost will also depend on any impact on rent levels.

We had discussions with landlords, assessors and businesses in the supply chain while developing the options for regulation. During the consultation phase, we plan to have further discussions with them on the form of regulation proposed in the consultation document. This will help us to obtain feedback as to whether the regulations have any impacts on them that have not been identified in this Business and Regulatory Impact Assessment.