New Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards
New Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for Landlords
In April we finally see the introduction of the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for residential and commercial property lettings. We have updated a large number of our template documents for landlords, letting agents and property managers to reflect the new MEES. Make sure you know what is required and take action if you haven’t already done so.
MEES for Commercial Property Lettings
From 1 April 2018 it will be unlawful for a landlord in England or Wales to enter into a new letting (or extend or renew an existing letting) of a commercial property with an F or G energy efficiency rating unless an exemption has been registered. From 1 April 2023, it will be unlawful to continue to let a commercial property with an F or G rating.
Landlords who let F- or G- rated properties without having registered a valid exemption will be liable to financial penalties based on the rateable value of the property. The minimum fine is £5,000 and the maximum £150,000. There will also be “publication penalties”. A publication penalty means that the local authority will publish details of the landlord’s breach on a publicly accessible part of the National PRS Exemptions Register.
MEES for Residential Lettings
The same energy efficiency requirements apply to residential lettings but the date for full compliance is brought forward to 1 April 2020. Residential landlords will face financial penalties of up to £4,000 as well as publication penalties.
More Information
Further information and guidance on MEES, including how to register an exemption, is available on the www.gov.uk website.
The contents of this Newsletter are for reference purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Independent legal advice should be sought in relation to any specific legal matter.