Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for Landlords

From 1^st April 2023 the MEES Regulations require a minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) for properties to be let. The regulations were first introduced in 2018, with a clear timetable of progression, so landlords have had a good period of time to prepare.

The MEES Regulations require a minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) to be met before properties in England and Wales can be let in certain circumstances. They also give residential tenants rights to make energy efficiency improvements to their property, despite the restrictions in their lease.

From 1^st April landlords will no longer be permitted to let commercial properties which have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating below E. It will be unlawful to continue to let a commercial property with an F or G EPC rating, even if the lease was granted prior to the MEES Regulations coming into force in 2018. There are permitted exemptions.

The new changes are a tightening of the Minimum Energy Efficient Standards (MEES) introduced in 2018, which made unlawful the grant of new leases and lease renewals for non-domestic properties with an EPC rating of lower than E. From 1 April 2023, subject to certain exemptions, all tenanted non-domestic properties will have to have been awarded at least an ‘E’ rating or better on their EPC for landlords to continue to let the property. Therefore, the current MEES regulations are to become applicable to existing leases of non-commercial property.

Failure to comply will see landlords face potential fines of up to £150,000.

It has been indicated that these requirements will tighten again in the near future, with a proposal that commercial properties must have an EPC rating of C or higher by 1 April 2027, and B or better by 2030.

What can you do if your property is rated F or G? There are a range of measures you can take but for advice in the first instance contact Vision Zero Consult and we will help with some practical advice.