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This article was published on February 2nd, 2023
Are you considering investing in property this year? With changes to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations, due to come into effect in April 2023, it’s important to be aware of how they might affect your property investments.
This guide will explain what the MEES changes are, how they will affect landlords and their tenants, and what steps you should take to ensure you meet the requirements.
MEES regulations are minimum requirements for EPC ratings put in place by the government. Changes to this legislation will restrict landlords from leasing out properties or renewing contracts for tenants in buildings with an EPC rating below an E from the beginning of April 2023. With only 2 months to go until this deadline, it is vital that both landlords and tenants understand the new rules.
After April, it will be illegal for a landlord to rent out, or purchase a property to rent that has an EPC rating of F or lower. The implementation of these new regulations means that many landlords will be forced to make major improvements to the energy efficiency of their existing properties. This work may include replacing the boiler or insulating the property. Failure to comply can lead to financial penalties of between £5,000 and £150,000. Landlords that purchase properties after the regulations have been announced may have to spend significant amounts on improvements.
In addition to these changes affecting landlords, they will also have an effect on many tenants across the UK. If you are living in a property with a low EPC rating, you may be required to contribute towards the cost of increasing the rating, if that is one of the agreements in your lease. As well as this, you may also need to consent to your landlord accessing your property to carry out relevant works. However,
All commercial properties, including shops, offices, restaurants, and other places of business, must meet the minimum energy efficiency standards. As a tenant, you may be requested to leave the property while work to increase energy efficiency is being done. However, the Deregulation Act protects renters against wrongful eviction because of concerns about the property’s energy efficiency.
As a landlord, if you are looking to purchase a property, you should look for a commercial building and ensure that it meets the minimum energy efficiency requirements. If you purchase a property with an EPC rating that is lower than E, it can lead to difficulties in leasing the property out, as well as financial penalties.
If you need any further help or advice about purchasing a property after April 2023, our team of specialist conveyancing solicitors can help. Our experienced conveyancers have a wealth of experience in dealing with a range of property transactions and will focus on safeguarding your interests at every stage of the transaction.
To speak to a member of our team, call us today on 0330 058 0118 or fill out our simple enquiry form.
