In short: HMO energy upgrades improve the energy performance certificate (EPC) rating and cut running costs: loft and wall insulation, heating and controls, glazing, ventilation and lighting. Across Scottish Borders, the work is planned around Scotland’s HMO rules and the standards the local council publishes.
- Nation
- Scotland
- Pricing region
- Scotland
- Postcode areas
- TD, EH, ML
- Main towns
- Hawick
What do EPC and energy upgrades in Scottish Borders involve?
- Review of the EPC recommendations
- Loft and roof insulation
- A post-works EPC through your assessor
- Heating, hot water and smart controls
- Ventilation to control condensation
- Double or secondary glazing
Which rules apply in Scottish Borders?
- Check current Scottish Government guidance on energy efficiency standards for private rented homes before planning upgrades.
- Awaab’s Law applies to most private tenancies from 6 October 2026: damp and mould reports must be investigated within 10 working days, and repairs to substantial damp or mould must start within 5 working days.
- A building warrant may be needed for a change of use or for installing a fire alarm system; check with the council’s building standards service.
Scottish councils set their own HMO licence standards and planning policies. Every HMO needs a licence, so check the council’s standards before you design the layout.
How much do EPC and energy upgrades cost in Scottish Borders?
| Item | UK typical | Local guide | Per |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loft insulation, whole house | £650 – £1,250 | £620 – £1,200 | house |
| Internal wall insulation | £60 – £100 | £60 – £100 | m² of wall |
Typical time on site: 2–15 working days. For a figure for your house, try the guide-price tool.
EPC and energy upgrades by town in Scottish Borders
Questions about EPC and energy upgrades in Scottish Borders
Which upgrade gives the best EPC improvement?
It depends on the house. Loft insulation and heating controls are often the cheapest gains; wall insulation and heating systems make larger differences.
Will insulation cause condensation?
Not if it is designed with ventilation and vapour control. We always pair insulation with suitable ventilation.
Do you carry out EPC and energy upgrades across Scottish Borders?
Yes, across the whole of Scottish Borders, including Hawick.
Who licenses HMOs in Scottish Borders?
Scottish Borders council licenses HMOs in its area. Every HMO in Scotland needs a licence.
Other HMO services in Scottish Borders
- Damp, mould and HHSRS repairs in Scottish Borders
- Full HMO refurbishment in Scottish Borders
- Commercial and above-shop to HMO in Scottish Borders
- Rewires and EICR remedials in Scottish Borders
- Professional and co-living HMO refurbs in Scottish Borders
- Loft conversions for extra rooms in Scottish Borders
- Void and between-tenancy refurbs in Scottish Borders
- House to HMO conversion in Scottish Borders