Private Sector Landlords

Benefits to landlords of improving the energy efficiency of properties

Making your home more energy efficient can result in the following benefits:

• Raised property values
• The achievement of higher EPC ratings, which could make properties easier to let
• More satisfied tenants leading to lower turnover of tenancies
• Likelihood of reduced rent arrears and defaults resulting from lower energy bills for tenants
• Achievement of energy and heating efficiency standards set for the landlord accreditation scheme
• Reduced levels of fuel poverty experienced by tenants
• Reduced incidence of condensation and dampness
• Reduced carbon dioxide emissions from properties.

What support is available to private landlords?

Some of the financial assistance offered by the Energy Saving Trust will be dependent on the circumstances of your tenants. Your local Energy Saving Scotland advice centre will be able to advise on eligibility on the all the available support to private landlords.

Support available includes:

• Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT)
• Energy Assistance Package
• Landlord's Energy Saving Allowance (LESA) (Link to external site)
• Energy Saving Scotland small business loans

Support for gas connection costs

The companies that operate the gas transportation network can provide support towards the cost of gas connections for some households that are at risk of experiencing fuel poverty.

To qualify for this support, properties usually have to be in the most deprived areas, or your tenant should be in receipt of qualifying benefits, meet certain age requirements or meet the Scottish Government’s definition of being in fuel poverty. To be in fuel poverty a household must spend more than 10% of its income, net of housing costs on energy.

Connections for recipients of measures funded by the Scottish Government through its Energy Assistance Package also qualify for the gas connection subsidy. Connections can often be provided at no charge for qualifying households.

Scotland Gas Networks can provide additional support through rebates funded by CERT. These rebates are only available when the connection is completed and where gas central heating is installed. They can be claimed in addition to any assistance given to support connections to fuel poor households.

Other support available:

For information on the assistance available contact your local Energy Saving Scotland advice centre on 0800 512 012.

You can also download a copy of the Private Sector Landlords booklet using the link below:

Download Private Sector Landlords Booklet (PDF 645KB)