Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)

MEES guidance notes for landlords

The Energy Efficiency Regulations 2015 are designed to tackle the least energy-efficient properties in England and Wales - those rated F or G on their Energy Performance Certificate (or EPC). The Regulations establish a minimum standard of EPC band E for both domestic and non-domestic private rented property, affecting new tenancies and renewals since 1 April 2018. This guidance relates to domestic property only.

The regulations set out the minimum level of energy efficiency for private rented property in England and Wales. In relation to the domestic private rented sector (PRS) the minimum level is EPC E. Landlords who are installing relevant energy efficiency improvements may, of course, aim above and beyond this current requirement if they wish.

The links below provide guidance to landlords of domestic property and others with an interest in the minimum level of energy efficiency required to let domestic private property under those regulations.

Contents

• what is MEES?
• why is MEES important?
• what are relevent energy efficiency improvements?
• what are the legal requirements?
• what are compliance notices?
• what are financial penalties?
• what are exemptions?
• what are my rights?

Reference legislation

• Energy Act 2011 ('the act')
• The Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 ('the EPB regulations')
• The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 ('the regulations')
• The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2016
• The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2019

Reference guidance

• domestic private rented property: minimum energy efficiency standard - landlord guidance
• the domestic private rented property minimum standard: guidance for landlords and local authorities
• a guide to energy performance certificates for the marketing, sale and let of dwellings
• guidance on PRS exemptions and exemptions register evidence requirements

Please contact our Private Sector Housing team for further information by e-mailing privatesectorhousing@stockton.gov.uk or calling 01642 527797.