Energy Performance for Landlords
Since 1 April 2018, landlords of both domestic and non-domestic premises have been obliged to meet minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES). This requires landlords to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a minimum efficiency standard of an E rating for all types of domestic and non-domestic property.
The new rules on EPCs apply to
- domestic properties in the private rental sector
- on a lease between 6 months and 99 years
- Properties in England and Wales. At present, the rules apply to new tenancies only but from 2020 the MEES will apply to all existing tenancies.
- Landlords with properties that fall below the E rating on the EPC will need to put in place works to bring the property up to the required standard before a new let or renewal and in any event before the requirement covers all properties from 2020.
- Without an EPC rated E or above, landlords face civil and criminal penalties for signing a new tenancy, or renewing an existing tenancy, from 1st April 2018. There are fines of up to £5,000 for landlords that are found in breach of the legislation.