From 1 April 2020, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) will apply to all residential properties let on “relevant tenancies” (typically, properties let as main homes on assured shorthold tenancies). From this date, landlords will have to carry out energy improvement measures up to a cost cap of £3,500. If the landlord has installed all measures up to the cap but has still not been able to bring the property up to a rating of E, they should register an exemption (allowing the property to be rented out with a rating of F or G). Guidance for landlords of domestic private rented property on how to comply as well as how to apply for funding and exemptions can be found on GOV.UK.
The regulations, first introduced on 1 April 2018, made granting new tenancies on properties with an EPC rating of below E unlawful (unless the property was registered as an exemption). From 1 April 2020, the rules will apply to all existing tenancies and new lettings. Not complying may lead to the local authority imposing fines of up to £5,000.
