The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) aims to improve the energy efficiency of the national building stock.
From April 2018, it became unlawful to grant new leases for non-domestic properties in England and Wales which do not meet the standard. These regulations extended to all privately rented properties from April 2023. The minimum standard is currently an EPC rating of E, this will move to a C rating by 2027 and then a B rating by 2030.
If a property falls within the scope of MEES, the landlord may still let it (even with an EPC rating below E) if an exemption applies. An exemption to MEES must be entered on the PRS Exemption Register which will then last for five years. Exemptions are personal, which means if a property is sold the new owner must apply for a fresh exemption.
The EPC regulations require that an EPC is provided:
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