EPC Changes Expected in 2026
Energy Performance Certificates, often called EPCs, are an important part of selling a home in Scotland. They help buyers understand how energy efficient a property is and form part of the wider Home Report process.
The Scottish Government has been reviewing how EPCs should work in future. However, planned reforms to the EPC system have been delayed. This means buyers and sellers should understand the current rules as well as the proposed changes that may come later.
Update: July 2026
The Scottish Government has confirmed that new-style EPC certificates, validity periods and rating systems will not come into force in October 2026 as previously planned. The current EPC system remains in place in Scotland until further notice. The new system is now expected in the second half of 2027, although a final legal implementation date has not yet been confirmed.
What Is an EPC?
An EPC gives a property an energy efficiency rating and includes recommendations that may improve the property’s performance.
In Scotland, an EPC is usually included as part of the Home Report when a residential property is marketed for sale. The Home Report also includes the Single Survey and Property Questionnaire.
The EPC helps buyers consider:
- how energy efficient the property is
- what improvements may be recommended
- how the property compares with others
- whether future upgrade costs may need to be considered
It should not be read in isolation. Instead, buyers should consider it alongside the rest of the Home Report.
What EPC Changes Were Proposed?
The Scottish Government proposed changes designed to make EPCs clearer and more useful for homeowners, buyers and sellers.
The proposed reforms included:
- new EPC rating measures
- redesigned certificates
- a shorter validity period
- a new Property Report
- updated calculation methods
- stronger quality assurance and operational oversight
For domestic properties, the proposed new rating system included a Heat Retention Rating, Heating System Rating and Energy Cost Rating. These were intended to give people a clearer view of how a property retains heat, how its heating system performs and what energy costs may look like.
However, these reforms are not currently in force.
What Is the Current Position in Scotland?
The current EPC system remains in place in Scotland until further notice.
This means:
- existing EPC rules still apply
- the current EPC format remains in use
- the planned new rating system has not yet been introduced
- the proposed shorter validity period has not taken effect
- planned transitional arrangements are paused
The delay is linked to the wider UK EPC reform timetable. Scotland’s regulations depend on the new Home Energy Model and assessor training being finalised across the UK.
The Scottish Government has said the new system is now expected in the second half of 2027. However, the regulations still need to be amended by the Scottish Parliament before a final commencement date is confirmed.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
If you are selling a home in Scotland, you still need to arrange the correct documentation before marketing the property.
For most residential properties, this means having a Home Report in place. The EPC will usually form part of that report.
Sellers should avoid relying on outdated information about the proposed 2026 reforms. If your EPC has been prepared under the current system, it remains part of the existing Scottish Home Report process unless you are advised otherwise.
However, energy efficiency still matters. Buyers are increasingly aware of running costs, heating systems and potential improvement work. Therefore, it is worth reading your EPC carefully and understanding what it says before your property goes on the market.
What Does This Mean for Buyers?
For buyers, the EPC remains a useful source of information. It can help you understand how the property performs from an energy efficiency perspective and what improvements may be recommended.
However, the EPC should be considered alongside the rest of the Home Report.
The Single Survey explains the condition of the property. The Property Questionnaire gives practical information from the seller. The EPC focuses on energy performance.
Together, these documents give a fuller picture of the property before you decide whether to make an offer.
What Does the New Scottish EPC Accreditation Scheme Mean for Homeowners?
The Scottish Government has launched the new Scottish EPC Accreditation Scheme as part of its wider reform of Energy Performance Certificates.
The scheme sets the standards that organisations must meet to oversee EPC assessors in Scotland. These Approved Organisations are responsible for areas such as assessor accreditation, training, quality assurance, audits and complaints. The aim is to strengthen how EPC assessments are managed and provide greater consistency and protection for consumers.
The accreditation scheme launched in advance of the wider EPC changes so that organisations can apply for approval and prepare their assessors for the new requirements. Certain parts of the 2025 regulations came into force on 1 January 2026 for this purpose.
However, the launch of the accreditation scheme does not mean that homeowners are already receiving the redesigned EPC. The wider regulations and new EPC format are due to take effect on 31 October 2026. Until then, EPCs continue to be produced under the existing system.
For sellers and buyers, the important distinction is that the accreditation scheme prepares the assessors and organisations behind the system. The later regulatory change will affect the certificate homeowners receive, including its ratings, layout and the information it provides.
Should Sellers Improve Their EPC Rating Before Selling?
Not every seller needs to carry out energy improvements before selling. However, it can be helpful to understand what the EPC recommendations say.
Some improvements may be simple and relatively low cost. Others may be more significant and require careful consideration.
Before making changes, sellers should think about:
- the age and type of the property
- the likely cost of the improvement
- whether the work is realistic before marketing
- whether the improvement is likely to matter to buyers
- whether specialist advice is needed
In some cases, it may be better to provide clear information rather than rush into upgrades shortly before selling.
Why EPC Guidance Needs to Stay Up to Date
EPC rules and policy discussions can change. That is why sellers should always check current guidance rather than relying on older articles, assumptions or headlines.
This is especially important where proposed reforms have been delayed. A change that was expected in 2026 may not yet apply.
At Home Report Company, our experienced team prepares Home Reports and EPCs for sellers across Scotland. We help clients understand what documentation is needed, what the process involves and how to move forward with confidence.
Arrange an EPC or Home Report in Scotland
If you are planning to sell your home, arranging the right documentation early can help prevent delays.
Home Report Company provides clear, reliable Home Reports and EPCs for properties across Scotland.rs are here to make the process as straightforward as possible.
