DON'T FORGET ABOUT ME…ES!
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the real estate sector has also been trying to come to terms with dealing with the crisis. With COP-26 deferred, it is important that the other global crisis (i.e. climate change) remains a priority and the relevant legislation relating to sustainability and the built environment is not forgotten about.
Since April 2018, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards ("MEES") have applied to the grant of both private sector rented domestic and non-domestic properties. This has meant that it has been unlawful for landlords to grant tenancies where their properties do not have Energy Performance Certificate ("EPC") ratings of E or above.
As of 1 April 2020, MEES apply to all existing private sector domestic residential lettings. Therefore, residential landlords cannot let, or continue to let, domestic, private rented properties where there is a valid EPC with a rating of F or G (which will be regarded as “sub-standard” under MEES).
There are various exemptions from MEES and these need to be registered on the Private Rented Sector Exemptions Register. The consequences of non-compliance for landlords are serious and include enforcement action and financial sanctions.
MEES will not begin to apply to existing commercial tenancies until 1 April 2023 and so commercial landlords will be watching this space!
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