EPC for Landlords: MEES Regulations Explained
As a landlord in England and Wales, you must ensure your rental property has a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a minimum rating of E before letting it out. Properties rated F or G cannot be legally rented without an exemption. This guide explains everything landlords need to know about EPC requirements, MEES regulations, and upcoming changes.
Current MEES Requirements (2025)
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations came into force in April 2018 for new tenancies and April 2020 for existing tenancies. Under these rules:
Properties rated A, B, C, D, or E meet the current minimum standard
Properties rated F or G are below the minimum standard (unless exempt)
Important: These regulations apply to all privately rented properties in England and Wales with an EPC, including houses, flats, and HMOs.
Confirmed Changes: Minimum C Rating by 2030
In January 2026, the government confirmed raising the minimum EPC rating for rental properties to C with a £10,000 cost cap. The confirmed timeline is:
Spending from this date counts towards the £10,000 cost cap
All rental properties must have an EPC rating of C or above
Note: Properties valued under £100,000 have a cost cap of 10% of property value.
What Landlords Need to Do
Check your current EPC rating
If your property doesn't have a valid EPC (less than 10 years old), you'll need to get a new one before marketing it for rent.
Improve to minimum E rating if needed
If rated F or G, make improvements to reach at least E. The EPC report includes recommendations specific to your property.
Consider future-proofing to C
With the confirmed 2030 changes, improving to C now may save money long-term and make your property more attractive to tenants.
Provide the EPC to tenants
You must give a copy of the EPC to prospective tenants free of charge and include the rating in property advertisements.
Register any exemptions
If you can't improve to the minimum standard, register a valid exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register before letting.
MEES Exemptions for Landlords
If you cannot improve your property to the minimum standard, you may be able to register an exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register. Exemptions last for 5 years and include:
Cost cap exemption
If all cost-effective improvements have been made and further improvements would cost more than £3,500 (inc VAT).
Wall insulation exemption
If cavity, external, or internal wall insulation is not appropriate due to potential negative impact on the property.
Consent exemption
If third-party consent (e.g., tenant, planning authority, freeholder) is required but refused.
Devaluation exemption
If an independent surveyor determines improvements would reduce the property value by more than 5%.
New landlord exemption
Temporary 6-month exemption for landlords who recently became landlords of an already-let property.
Exemptions must be registered on the government's PRS Exemptions Register before letting or continuing to let a property.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Local authorities can impose financial penalties on landlords who breach MEES regulations:
| Breach Type | Penalty (less than 3 months) | Penalty (3 months or more) |
|---|---|---|
| Letting a sub-standard property | Up to £2,000 | Up to £4,000 |
| Providing false information on exemption | Up to £1,000 | |
| Failing to comply with compliance notice | Up to £2,000 | Up to £4,000 |
Maximum total penalty per property: £5,000. Penalties may be published on the PRS Exemptions Register.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EPC to rent my property?
Yes. In England and Wales, you must have a valid EPC (less than 10 years old) before marketing your property for rent. You must also provide a copy to prospective tenants free of charge.
What is the minimum EPC rating for rental properties?
Currently, the minimum is E. Properties rated F or G cannot be legally rented unless an exemption is registered. From October 2030, all rental properties must be rated C or above.
Can I rent out a property rated F or G?
Only if you have a valid exemption registered on the PRS Exemptions Register. Valid exemptions include the cost cap exemption (if improvements would cost over £3,500) or if consent is refused.
What happens if I let a property below the minimum standard?
Local authorities can impose financial penalties of up to £5,000 per property. The breach may also be published on the PRS Exemptions Register.
How long does an EPC last?
EPCs are valid for 10 years. You'll need a new assessment when it expires. However, getting a new EPC after making improvements can demonstrate the enhanced efficiency to potential tenants.
Do MEES regulations apply to HMOs?
Yes. MEES applies to all privately rented domestic properties in England and Wales, including Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).
Check Your Property's EPC
Find out your rental property's current EPC rating.