Energy Efficiency Obligations Raise the Heat on Landlords
Did you know that if you are a commercial landlord, you cannot grant a lease of a property with an EPC rating of F or G? The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards or ‘MEES’ are regulations which landlords must follow to make properties more energy efficient – an aim of the Government’s Clean Growth Strategy. There are a few exemptions, but as of 1 April 2023, it is unlawful to let – or continue to let – a property with a rating lower than E. Any breaches will result in a hefty fine (between £5k – £150k per breach.)
What if the lease was granted before 1 April 2023?
Landlords will still need follow the regulations, so even if the lease was granted earlier, the MEES regulations apply and fines can be imposed upon the landlord.
What about residential properties?
An EPC rating of at least E and higher has already been place since 2020 and come 2025, this rating will be pushed up to at least C.
If you are a landlord, developer or investor, it is advised you discuss how you are going to meet these new requirements and the proposed 2025 C rating. Factors to think about include: the costs of renovation work; loss of income during works or should a property be deemed ‘unlettable’; ability to pay the fine if any breaches are found. It is worth checking your property’s EPC rating to see where you stand. We would recommend you do this sooner than later because 2025 is fast approaching…
Click here for Government regulations on commercial buildings.
If you would like to discuss any of the issues raised in the article above, please contact Hart Reade on 01323 727 321 or email for a callback on info@hartreade.co.uk.
Get in touch
If you want to find out more, do not hesitate to call us and one of our private client lawyers will be more than happy to help.
Please call us on 01323 727321, visit our website www.hartreade.co.uk or email us on info@hartreade.co.uk. We offer appointments at any of our offices in Eastbourne, Meads, Polegate or Hailsham.
Please note the above is for information purposes only and is intended to be a short summary. It should not be treated as a comprehensive guide and should not be acted on without qualified legal advice.