Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Most of this guide covers England and Wales. Here's how the rules differ elsewhere.

Wales

The same minimum rules apply as in England: E or better today, with fines up to £5,000, and the C standard by 1 October 2030. Rent Smart Wales also enforces the rules through its licence conditions. Under the Renting Homes Act, you must have given the contract-holder a valid EPC before you can serve certain possession notices. The Warm Homes Nest scheme can help with improvements.

Scotland

You need an EPC for each rented home, must give it free to new tenants and must show the rating in adverts.
There's no minimum rating for private lets yet.
The Scottish Government has consulted on a minimum standard of C on a new heat retention rating, for new tenancies from 2028 and all tenancies by the end of 2033, with a £10,000 cost cap. These rules aren't law yet.
New Scottish EPCs are due from 30 April 2028 and will be valid for 5 years instead of 10.

Northern Ireland

You need an EPC when you market a property to let, and must give it free to prospective tenants. It's valid for 10 years.
There's no minimum rating for private lets yet. The Department for Communities has the power to set one and has committed to raising standards, but hasn't set dates.

Sources

All facts on this page were last checked against these official sources on 19 October 2026.

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