The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 require domestic rented properties to achieve a legal minimum level of energy efficiency – namely they must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least Band ‘E’.

MEES applies to all domestic privately rented properties let on specific types of tenancy that are legally required to have an EPC.

Where the EPC rating is either ‘F’ or ‘G’, landlords are required to upgrade their property and obtain a new EPC so that the property achieves an EPC rating of ‘E’ or above. In some cases, landlords may be able to register an exemption on the Government’s Private Rented Sector Exemptions Register, provided they meet prescribed criteria.

• Guidance for landlords
• Check if your property has an EPC

Funding of works

Landlords are required to spend up to £3500 (inc. VAT) per property on energy efficiency improvements in order to comply with MEES. If they cannot improve a property to achieve a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ for £3500 or less, they must make all of the improvements which can be made up to that amount and then register an ‘all improvements made’ exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register.

Funding to carry out energy efficiency improvements can be obtained either by securing third-party funding (e.g. local authority or Government grants), self-funding, or a combination of both. Information and support on current forms of assistance can be found by contacting our energy partners, Act on Energy.

Enforcement

Where the Council believes that a property has been let in breach of MEES, it can serve a Compliance Notice requesting further information or documentation to confirm any breaches. A Penalty Notice can be served on the landlord imposing a financial penalty up to £5000 per property.

The Private Sector Housing team are currently investigating properties which may be in breach of the MEES Regulations.

Advice

Whether you are a landlord, letting agent or a tenant, looking for further information or advice about MEES, please contact privatesectorhousing@warwickdc.gov.uk