Guide
Meet energy efficiency standards for let properties
Legal requirement to achieve minimum EPC rating E for residential lettings. Covers England and Wales MEES regulations, exemptions, and penalties for non-compliance.
If you let residential property in England or Wales, you must ensure it meets minimum energy efficiency standards. From 1 April 2020, all let properties in England and Wales require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or better under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations 2015. Letting a property rated F or G in England or Wales is subject to civil enforcement penalties of up to £5,000 unless you have registered a valid exemption.
Penalties for non-compliance
Local authorities can impose civil financial penalties for breaches of MEES regulations:
- Up to £2,000 for letting a non-compliant property for less than 3 months
- Up to £4,000 for letting a non-compliant property for 3 months or more
- Up to £1,000 for providing false or misleading information on the PRS Exemptions Register
- Maximum £5,000 total penalty per property per breach
Authorities may also publish details of the breach for at least 12 months.
Next steps if your property is below E rating
If your EPC shows F or G rating:
- Get three quotes for energy efficiency improvements recommended in the EPC
- Install cost-effective measures up to £3,500 (including VAT) - this is your legal obligation
- Get a new EPC after improvements to verify the new rating
- Register an exemption if property remains below E rating after spending £3,500
Keep all receipts and documentation to prove compliance if challenged.