Minimum energy efficiency standards

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Regulations apply to all privately rented properties in England and Wales which are legally required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

These regulations were introduced to:

• improve the energy efficiency of the private rented housing sector in England and Wales
• reduce levels of fuel poverty
• improve the health and wellbeing of tenants
• deliver on governmental carbon reduction targets to combat climate change

By law, landlords must comply with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).

It is illegal for landlords of a domestic property to have a tenancy with new or existing tenants if the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has a rating of either F or G. 

This law came into effect on 1 April 2020.

If the rating is F or G you must make energy efficiency improvements to the property to raise the EPC rating to the minimum standard. 

After carrying out improvement works you must get a new updated EPC for the property.

You may be able to apply for an exemption for your property. Check if you're eligible on GOV.UK. 

If eligible, you can apply for an exemption on GOV.UK.

GOV.UK has more information about:

• if your property is covered by the regulations
• when you need to take action to improve your property to EPC E
• selecting energy efficiency measures
• registering an exemption
• enforcement and penalties

Get help with costs

Available financial support and energy saving advice:

• apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme: Overview
• Ofgem's Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme
• Energy saving genie grant
• Green Deal finance plans
• Energy Saving Trust
• Green Doctors service