MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards) is a new regulation that was introduced by the government to help improve the carbon footprint of some of the UK’s more inefficient properties.

Under MEES, properties will have been evaluated and received an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating from 'A' to 'G' with ‘A’ being the most energy efficient and ‘G’ being the least energy efficient. A rating of ‘E’ is the minimum level of acceptability under MEES.

How are you affected?

Around 75,000 commercial premises are likely to be affected, with two key deadlines, one of which has already come into effect.

From April 2018 – landlords with properties based in England and Wales MUST ensure they achieve an EPC rating of at least E, before they can grant or renew a lease.

From April 2023 – ALL properties with existing tenancies MUST have an EPC rating of E or above, or the lease won’t legally be allowed to continue.

Each property MUST be compliant by these dates – it is too late to wait until the April 2018 deadline to start taking action.

Who Does MEES Apply to & What Should You Do?

Identify any property with an EPC rating lower than ‘E’, and create a plan to raise its rating. To check the property’s EPC rating click here.

MEES applies to all privately rented commercial properties that are legally required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

The consequences of failing to comply with MEES are serious.

There is the potential for a financial penalty to be issued. Dependent on the type of infringement and length of non-compliance, this could reach from £5,000 up to £150,000 for a commercial property.

It is also worth noting that a non-compliant property will be devalued, which is likely to lead to problems with bank/financier security and insurance cover.