<strong>What are MEES?</strong>

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards prohibit the letting of private rented property with an EPC rating below E, unless an exemption applies. This applies to both commercial and residential properties.

<strong>MEES and the EPC Exemption</strong>

MEES only apply to properties legally required to have an EPC. Therefore, if a listed building is exempt from the EPC requirement, it is also exempt from MEES.
<ul>
 	<li>If a listed building does not require an EPC (because improvements would unacceptably alter its character), it is not subject to MEES.</li>
 	<li>If a listed building does require an EPC, it must comply with MEES unless another exemption applies.</li>
</ul>
<strong>Other MEES Exemptions</strong>

Where a listed building is not exempt from MEES by virtue of the EPC exemption, other exemptions may be relevant, such as:
<ul>
 	<li><strong>Consent Exemption:</strong> Where third-party consent (e.g., from a conservation officer) for improvements cannot be obtained.</li>
 	<li><strong>Devaluation Exemption:</strong> Where improvements would reduce the property’s value by more than 5%.</li>
 	<li><strong>All Improvements Made Exemption:</strong> Where all relevant improvements have been made, but the property still does not meet the minimum standard.</li>
</ul>
All exemptions must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register to be valid. The process is free and can be done online.

<strong>Practical Application</strong>
<ul>
 	<li><strong>Assessment:</strong> Carefully consider whether energy efficiency measures would unacceptably alter the listed building’s character.</li>
 	<li><strong>Consultation:</strong> Engage with conservation officers early.</li>
 	<li><strong>Record Keeping:</strong> Maintain clear records of listed status, assessments, and correspondence.</li>
 	<li><strong>Disclosure:</strong> Be transparent with buyers or tenants about EPC and MEES status.</li>
 	<li><strong style="--tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: #3b82f680; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000;">Exemption Registration:</strong> Ensure any exemption is properly registered on the PRS Exemption Register and supported by evidence.</li>
 	<li><strong>Penalties:</strong> Non-compliance can result in significant financial penalties.</li>
</ul>