Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards ( MES )

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As from 1^st April 2018 the new MEES regulations come into force.  From that date it will be illegal to grant a new tenancy (including renewals) for a property with an Energy Performance Certificate rating below E.

As from 1 April 2020 it will apply to all tenancies regardless of when they were entered into.

Any Landlord failing to comply with the regulations will face a sizeable fine for doing so.  It is therefore important that you check your properties now rather than fall foul of the new requirements.

Penalties for non-compliance are as follows: –

• The greater of £5,000 or 10% of the rateable value of the property, up to a maximum of £50,000, if the breach is for less than three months.
• The greater of £10,000 or 20% of the rateable value of the property, to a maximum of £150,000, if the breach is over than three months.
• The penalty will be published on the public register.

There is also the added complication of not being able to let your property until it has been brought up to standard.  In addition, tenants can take steps against you for not being compliant.

There are some exemptions for example listed buildings but you must register the exemption in order for it to be on the public register and it can only be relied on for five years.  Other examples include where professional evidence shows that works would reduce the value of the property by more than 5% and any residential lettings that are not regulated or assured.