Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) - UPDATE September 2024
On 23rd September 2024, during the Annual Labour Party Conference held in Liverpool, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband announced plans to “raise the minimum energy performance requirement of rented and social homes in a bid to reduce energy costs”.
“The government will consult before the end of the year on raising the minimum energy performance standard to C or equivalent by 2030”.
This would mean landlords would have to be raise the current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating to C from the current minimum E rating for any domestic rental property by 2030.
Further updates will follow as soon as we know more.
Domestic Property Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)
Since 1st April 2020, the Domestic Property Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations apply to all existing privately rented properties as well as all new tenancies.
Regardless whether, your property is let on an assured tenancy or a regulated tenancy, it requires an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a minimum E rating. If the property has been marketed for sale or to let in the previous 10 years then it may already have an EPC. Currently properties in England and Wales, average an energy rating of D.
If the rental property does not reach the MEES minimum standards, then energy efficiency of the property needs to be improved so it’s rating is at least an E. The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) will have a list of recommendations and also provide a typical installation cost of installing the improvement.
Some of the most cost effective improvements can be made to the heating system. These include fitting a room thermostat or TRV’s on radiators. Improving the properties loft insulation to a minimum of 270mm is also one of the easiest improvements that can be made. Other measures such as external wall insulation or solar PV panels could also include additional costs – such as temporary scaffolding required during the installation.
Prior to any property refurbishment or letting, Green Door EPC would highly recommend getting in touch to arrange an initial assessment and EPC to help the domestic property achieve the required MEES.
We would also recommend looking on the Government’s website to see if any relevant exemptions or energy improvement grants can be applied.
The Energy Performance rating is recorded on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and can been checked on the Energy Performance of Buildings Register.