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Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards in England & Wales

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In March 2015, the government implemented the aforementioned regulations, ushering in energy standards for all privately rented properties. Essentially, these regulations prohibit leasing properties with an energy performance rating that are worse than a Grade E. This means that buildings with a Grade F or G in England would require further investigation.

Key Dates

  • April 1, 2020

    Landlords of domestic, private, rented properties with an EPC rating of F or G must not continue leasing until improvements are made to achieve an E rating or above, or a valid exemption is obtained. Properties leased before October 1, 2008, are not legally required to have an EPC, but if available, it is treated as 'voluntary' according to government guidance.

  • April 1, 2023

    Landlords of non-domestic, private, rented properties with an EPC rating of F or G must not continue leasing until improvements are made to achieve an E rating or above, or a valid exemption is obtained.

Listed Buildings

Regulations are more intricate for listed buildings. According to MEES guidance, an EPC is unnecessary if energy improvements would 'unacceptably alter the property's character or appearance.' Landlords are advised to commission an EPC to make informed decisions.

  • Lodge EPCs with ratings between Band A and E on the government register.

  • Assess whether suggested works for ratings below Band E (F or G) allow registration on the Private Rental Sector (PRS) Exemptions Register.

  • If MEES compliance is possible, perform the necessary work, and lodge the EPC.

  • If Band E is unattainable, make suggested improvements preserving the property's character, and lodge the exemption on the PRS Register.

Funding improvements

Under the regulations, landlords are not obliged to spend over £3,500, including VAT, on energy efficiency improvements. If a property cannot achieve a Band E rating even after recommended improvements totaling £3,500, landlords can apply for a PRS 'all improvements made' exemption.

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