MEES EPC Requirements for Landlords: How to Stay Compliant
Understanding MEES EPC Requirements for Landlords: What You Must Know
If you’re a landlord in England, understanding MEES EPC requirements for landlords is essential to avoid penalties. The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) are legally binding and ensure that your rental property meets specific energy efficiency levels. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and avoid fines.
Current Legal Requirements for MEES EPC Ratings
Since April 2020, landlords are required to comply with MEES EPC requirements for rental properties. If a property has an EPC rating of F or G, landlords must either improve the rating or register an exemption. MEES EPC requirements for landlords are crucial to maintaining a lawful tenancy and avoiding fines.
Landlords must ensure their rental properties meet at least an E rating on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). If a property falls below this threshold, improvements must be made before letting it to tenants.
🔗 Need help arranging an EPC? Start here
Planned Future Changes: EPC C by 2025 and 2028
The UK Government has proposed raising the bar further:
- From December 2025, all newly let rental properties must achieve an EPC rating of C or better.
- By 2028, this requirement is expected to apply to all tenancies, including existing ones.
Although this legislation is still awaiting final confirmation, landlords are strongly encouraged to act early to prepare for these tighter MEES EPC requirements.
🔗 Find out how to upgrade your EPC rating
When Can Landlords Register an Exemption from MEES EPC?
There are specific situations where a property may be let despite not meeting the minimum MEES EPC requirements, including:
- High-cost exemption: If the required improvements would cost over the allowable spending limit (currently £3,500 including VAT).
- All improvements made: If all eligible works have been completed but the rating still falls short.
- Wall insulation exemption: If recommended cavity or solid wall insulation isn’t suitable for the building.
- Consent exemption: If a third party (e.g., tenant, planning authority) refuses consent for improvements.
- Devaluation exemption: If improvements would negatively affect the property’s value by more than 5%.
- New landlord exemption: Available for a limited time after acquiring a property.
All exemptions must be lodged on the official PRS Exemptions Register.
🔗 Need support with compliance or exemption guidance? Click here
Penalties for Not Meeting MEES EPC Requirements
Failing to meet MEES EPC requirements can result in:
- Financial penalties of up to £5,000 per property
- Public naming on the PRS Exemptions Register
- Potential restrictions on letting the property
It’s far more cost-effective – and less stressful – to take proactive steps now rather than risk enforcement action.
Grants and Schemes to Help Fund Upgrades
Landlords don’t always have to pay out of pocket. Support may be available, including:
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme – Grants toward replacing gas or oil boilers with energy-efficient alternatives like heat pumps.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO) – Support for low-income households to make insulation or heating improvements.
These schemes can help you bring a property up to standard without facing the full financial burden yourself.
🔗 Check what help is available in Doncaster
Ready to Get Compliant with MEES EPC Requirements?
Whether you’re preparing to let a property, checking your current rating, or planning energy improvements, understanding your duties under MEES EPC requirements is essential. At epcdoncasterarea.co.uk, we offer fast, affordable EPC assessments and guidance for landlords across Doncaster.
