Calculate potential penalties under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for rental properties with EPC ratings below E.
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) were introduced under the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) Regulations 2015. They set a minimum energy efficiency standard for privately rented properties in England and Wales.
Since 1 April 2018, landlords of privately rented domestic and commercial properties have been prohibited from granting new tenancies for properties with an EPC rating below E. From 1 April 2020, this restriction was extended to all existing tenancies.
Local authorities are responsible for enforcing MEES regulations. If a landlord is found to be letting a non-compliant property, they can be issued with a financial penalty. The fine structure differs between domestic and commercial properties:
In addition to fines, landlords found to be in breach of MEES may be listed on the PRS Exemptions Register, which is publicly accessible.
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations set a minimum EPC rating for rental properties in England and Wales. Since April 2018, it has been unlawful to grant new tenancies for properties with an EPC rating below E. Since April 2020, this applies to all existing tenancies.
The current minimum EPC rating for rental properties is E. Properties rated F or G cannot be legally let unless they have a valid exemption registered on the PRS Exemptions Register.
MEES fines depend on how long the property has been non-compliant and whether it is domestic or commercial. For domestic properties, fines can reach up to £5,000. For commercial properties, fines are based on the rateable value of the property and can reach up to £150,000.
Yes, exemptions are available in certain circumstances, such as when all cost-effective improvements have been made but the property still doesn't reach an E rating (the 'all improvements made' exemption), or when a tenant refuses consent for improvements.
The UK government has proposed raising the minimum EPC rating to C for new tenancies from 2025 onwards, and for all tenancies from 2028. These proposals are subject to change but landlords should plan ahead.
Yes, MEES regulations apply to both domestic and commercial properties. Commercial properties with an EPC rating below E cannot be let, and fines for commercial non-compliance are significantly higher than for domestic properties.