The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations are a critical part of the UK’s energy compliance framework. They place legal obligations on landlords to ensure that commercial properties meet a minimum level of energy efficiency before they can be let or renewed.
At Arthian, we provide expert MEES compliance consultancy to help landlords, property managers, and estates teams understand their obligations, assess risk across their portfolios, and implement cost-effective strategies to improve energy performance.
What Are the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES)?
MEES regulations were introduced under the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015. They apply to non-domestic (commercial) properties that are let or leased.
Key MEES Requirements:
Since 1 April 2018, landlords must not grant a new lease for a commercial property with an EPC rating below E.
Since 1 April 2023, this requirement also applies to existing leases—meaning all let commercial properties must meet the minimum standard.
Properties with an EPC rating of F or G are considered “sub-standard” and cannot legally be let unless an exemption applies.
Our MEES Services
MEES applies to commercial landlords and freeholders, managing agents acting on behalf of property owners, and investors and asset managers with leased property portfolios
Failure to comply can result in financial penalties of up to £150,000 per breach, public disclosure on the PRS Exemptions Register, and restrictions on letting or renewing leases
EPC Review and Risk Assessment
Improvement Planning
Exemption Guidance
Strategic Portfolio Management
Why MEES Compliance Matters
EPC Review and Risk Assessment
We review your current Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and identify properties at risk of non-compliance. This includes:
EPC rating analysis
Expiry tracking
Portfolio-wide risk mapping
Improvement Planning
For properties rated F or G, we develop tailored improvement plans to help you achieve compliance. This includes:
Costed upgrade options
Payback and ROI modelling
Coordination with EPC assessors and contractors
Exemption Guidance
Where improvements are not viable, we advise on:
Valid exemption categories
Evidence requirements
Registration on the PRS Exemptions Register
Strategic Portfolio Management
We help landlords and investors future-proof their assets by:
Prioritising high-risk properties
Aligning MEES with ESG and net zero strategies
Supporting long-term energy performance planning
Why MEES Compliance Matters
MEES Compliance matters for a range of reasons, including:
Legal Risk: avoid fines, enforcement action, and reputational damage by ensuring all let properties meet the required EPC rating.
Asset Protection: properties with poor EPC ratings may become unlettable, reducing income and asset value. MEES compliance protects your investment.
Sustainability Goals: improving energy efficiency supports broader ESG and carbon reduction targets, helping you meet stakeholder expectations.
EPC Review and Risk Assessment
We review your current Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and identify properties at risk of non-compliance. This includes:
EPC rating analysis
Expiry tracking
Portfolio-wide risk mapping
Improvement Planning
For properties rated F or G, we develop tailored improvement plans to help you achieve compliance. This includes:
Costed upgrade options
Payback and ROI modelling
Coordination with EPC assessors and contractors
Exemption Guidance
Where improvements are not viable, we advise on:
Valid exemption categories
Evidence requirements
Registration on the PRS Exemptions Register
Strategic Portfolio Management
We help landlords and investors future-proof their assets by:
Prioritising high-risk properties
Aligning MEES with ESG and net zero strategies
Supporting long-term energy performance planning
Why MEES Compliance Matters
MEES Compliance matters for a range of reasons, including:
Legal Risk: avoid fines, enforcement action, and reputational damage by ensuring all let properties meet the required EPC rating.
Asset Protection: properties with poor EPC ratings may become unlettable, reducing income and asset value. MEES compliance protects your investment.
Sustainability Goals: improving energy efficiency supports broader ESG and carbon reduction targets, helping you meet stakeholder expectations.
Why Choose Arthian's Energy team?
Integration
Fully integrated with geotechnical, hydrological, and ecological disciplines.
Our Experience
National experience with regional insight and regulatory familiarity.
Our Understanding
Deep understanding of planning, infrastructure, and environmental interfaces.
Results Driven
Commitment to technical rigour, clear communication, and long-term outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What EPC rating do I need to meet MEES?
The minimum standard is an E rating. Properties rated F or G cannot be let unless an exemption is registered.
What if my EPC is out of date?
You’ll need a new EPC to assess current compliance. We can arrange updated assessments and advise on next steps.
Can I get an exemption from MEES?
Yes, in certain cases—such as where improvements are not cost-effective or consent is refused. We can help you determine eligibility and manage the registration process.
How do I manage MEES across multiple properties?
We offer portfolio-wide MEES risk assessments, improvement planning, and compliance tracking to simplify management and reduce risk.
Get in Touch
We’d love to hear from you – whether you have a question, a project in mind, want to explore job opportunities, or just want to say hello.