Energy Efficiency in the Private Rental Sector
If you have ever rented, sold, or purchased a property in the past, chances are you have come across an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This document provides information on the energy efficiency of a building. It is a legal requirement in the UK for all properties that are built, sold, or rented.
An EPC provides an energy rating for the building on a scale of A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G being the least efficient. The rating is based on the energy performance of the building, including its insulation, heating, lighting, and other factors that affect energy usage.
The EPC also includes recommendations for improving the energy efficiency of the building, such as installing insulation, reviewing the heating system, upgrading to energy efficient lightbulbs. These recommendations are not mandatory, but they can help increase a properties energy rating.
An EPC is valid for 10 years and can be obtained from a certified energy assessor who will visit the property and assess its energy performance. The assessment considers the size, age, and construction of the building, as well as its heating, lighting systems and insulation.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) were introduced to the Private Rental Sector in 2015. These are a set of regulations that require most buildings to meet a minimum level of energy efficiency.
Under the MEES regulations, landlords must ensure that their properties meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of “E” on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). If a building is rated below “E”, it is below the minimum standard and cannot be let until improvements are made.
From 1 April 2020, the MEES regulations apply to all existing tenancies in the private rented sector. There are certain exemptions to the MEES regulations, such as where improvements are not cost-effective or where the improvements would reduce the value of the property by more than 5%. Landlords must register an exemption on the National PRS Exemptions Register if they believe their property is exempt from the regulations.
The purpose of the MEES regulations is to improve the energy efficiency of properties, reduce carbon emissions, and lower energy usage. By requiring landlords to make energy-efficient improvements to their properties, the regulations aim to make a significant contribution towards the UK’s target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
With the minimum rating of an “E” expected to be raised in the coming years, planning now is important to ensure rental properties remain compliant.
If you would like to discuss the energy rating of your property further, contact our team of Property Management specialists on 01603 751555 or letting@watsons-property.co.uk.
Norwich and Norfolk Lettings and Property Management
