IMMINENT CHANGE IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY RULES

The existing Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) have already proven significant to all commercial landlords. MEES require a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ on all new commercial lettings and, from 1 April 2023, will require minimum ‘E’ rating on all existing leases too (subject to some specific  exemptions).

With energy efficiency set to be an area of dramatic change in commercial property this decade, Graves Jenkins are closely monitoring government proposals to update the MEES.

The current proposal is to require a minimum EPC rating of ‘C’ on all leased properties before April 2027 and ‘B’ before April 2030. Further proposals include new requirements on commercial tenants during fitout and an obligation on landlords to provide a new EPC immediately on expiry of a previous EPC.

If put into law, these proposals are major changes with potential for significant costs and savings for landlords. Please contact Graves Jenkins for any further information.