Elmhurst has received confirmation that the Energy Efficiency (Domestic Private Rented Property) Regulations in Scotland will be delayed in light of the ongoing situation with Covid-19.

In December, the Scottish Government provided a brief update regarding the regulations which highlighted their intentions to introduce them in April 2021. However, the current national situation has resulted in a change to this plan.

Scottish Government has stated:

“Following a ministerial discussion, and in light of the ongoing Covid-19 situation, it was decided to once again pause the work to bring the PRS regulations in to law. Due to the ongoing pressures in the sector caused by the pandemic we are not now able to indicate a firm date, but can confirm it will not be in this Parliament. Any work to bring them back will only be done following a review of the pandemic situation and the impact that is causing on the building sector, coupled with the pressure on the Private Rented Sector.”

Elmhurst’s Scotland Manager, Jonathan Bourke, comments: “Elmhurst are dissapointed to see these regulations pushed back yet again, but understand and support the reasoning provided by Scottish Government. These regulations are important as they will target some of Scotland’s worst performing homes; we will continue to push for these regulations and hope to see them back on the government’s agenda sooner rather than later”.