EPC Changes in Scotland: New Method for Commercial Buildings

EPC Changes in Scotland: Simple Facts

Big changes are coming for commercial EPCs in Scotland.  Starting October 31, 2026, new EPC rules take effect.  All old certificates will expire.  However, there is a key one-year transition period for properties being marketed.

For owners, this matters. The changes will help to protect asset value and prepares your building for net zero.

Why Are the EPC Changes Happening?

The current EPC system in Scotland has flaws. Ratings do not compare buildings fairly.  The new Scotland EPC changes fix this. They make the system fairer and support decarbonisation.

From October 2026, EPCs issued under the old 2008 rules will become invalid.  This means every commercial property will eventually need a new EPC under the new rules.

Important Deadlines and Exemptions

The new rules begin on October 31, 2026. Yet, the transition allows some flexibility:

• Temporary Use of Old EPCs: For sales or lettings until October 31, 2027, a valid, old-style EPC can still be used.  This is a one-year exemption.
• The Final Deadline: After October 31, 2027, only new EPCs will be accepted for sale, letting, and compliance.
• Validity: The EPC validity drops from 10 years to 5 years.

What are the Changes on the EPC?

• Energy Performance Rating (A–G): This compares energy use emissions to a standard reference building.
• Energy Use Rating: This shows how much energy the building uses normally.
• Direct Emissions Rating: This shows emissions from energy use. It helps plan for decarbonisation.

These changes make Scotland EPC rules like those in England and Wales.  Owners with UK-wide portfolios will find the new system easier.

What You Should Do

Many owners ask: "Will my rating drop? What steps should I take? What is the cost?"

The best way to get a good rating is to decarbonise heat. This means moving away from fossil fuels.  Consider installing heat pumps.  To properly assess your properties, a feasibility looking at costs, planning implications and electrical capacity is critical.

Avoid Mistakes

Simple advice like “install VRF to get a B” is not enough.  Getting a good EPC rating in Scotland needs a full, clear plan.  At KJ Tait, we go further.  We give you a costed upgrade path.  We make complex technical steps simple.

How KJ Tait Can Help

We are expert engineers. We combine compliance knowledge with practical steps. We help you:

• Compare your building to the new EPC method.

• Find the best upgrade measures.

• Create a costed plan to protect asset value.

• Meet your ESG and net zero goals.

We have CIBSE-accredited Level 5 energy assessors in both Scotland and England.  We understand the current and future EPC rules in Scotland.

Your Next Steps

1. Check your current EPC.

2. Plan for reassessment under the new rules.

3. Start heat decarbonisation now.

The EPC changes in Scotland are a chance to act.   Use them to future-proof your assets.

Need Expert Help? Contact KJ Tait today to see how the Scotland EPC changes affect your property. Let us help you get ready.

What are the Government Next Steps?

The Scottish Government will engage with stakeholders throughout 2026 to ensure a smooth transition. Owners and managers of non-domestic buildings should prepare for the new requirements, review their current EPC status, and plan for reassessment under the new regulations.

Download our Guide to the Changes

EPC Changes in Scotland: The Key Takeaways

• From October 31, 2026, existing EPCs can be used for one year; after that, only 2025 Regulations EPCs will be valid.

• • EPCs will align across the UK using the same methodology, as confirmed by the Scottish Government.

• • New EPCs will have a validity of 5 years, reduced from the previous 10 years.

• • Buildings not already advertised for sale or rent will require new EPCs under the updated method from October 31 2026.

• • Successful implementation depends on defining reference buildings consistently, ensuring clarity, and integrating with digital platforms.

EPC Changes in Scotland: Q&A

What are the transitional arrangements for the changes to EPCs in Scotland?

From 31 October 2026, a one-year grace period allows existing EPCs (2008 Regulations) to be used for ongoing sales and lets.  After 31 October 2027, only EPCs issued under the 2025 Regulations will be valid

Large non-domestic buildings frequently visited by the public have until the earlier of their current EPC expiry or 31 October 2031 to transition to the new-style EPC

Will changes to Scotland EPCs mean alignement across the UK

Yes, the Scottish Government has confirmed that EPCs will be aligned across the UK with the same methodology used.

How long will the new EPCs in Scotland be valid for?

the validity will be reduced from 10 years to 5 years for the new EPCs.

Will all EPCs need to be recalculated once the changes are made in Scotland?

Yes, from 31st October next year those buildings that were not already advertised for sale or rent will need an EPC conducted under the new method.