The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) set the legal baseline for renting out property in England and Wales. Since April 2018, it has been unlawful to grant a new tenancy on a property with an EPC rating below E, and since April 2020 this applies to all existing tenancies as well.
This page explains what MEES means for Oxfordshire landlords, how it applies to different property types, and what happens if your property doesn’t meet the minimum standard.
What Are the MEES Regulations?
MEES was introduced under the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015. The rules require that any property rented out in the private sector must have an EPC rating of at least E. Properties rated F or G cannot legally be let unless the landlord has registered a valid exemption.
The regulations apply to:
- Assured tenancies and assured shorthold tenancies
- Regulated tenancies under the Rent Act 1977
- Domestic agricultural tenancies
What Is the Current Minimum EPC Rating?
The current legal minimum is an EPC rating of E. Any property rated F or G is considered substandard under MEES and cannot be legally let without an exemption.
The government has previously proposed raising the minimum to C, though the timeline and final details remain uncertain. For more on this, see our page on whether EPC ratings can change over time.
What Happens If Your Property Falls Below the Minimum?
If your rental property has an EPC rating of F or G, you have two options:
- Improve the property to bring the rating up to at least an E. This might involve insulation upgrades, heating improvements, or draught-proofing.
- Register an exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register if you qualify. Exemptions are valid for five years and must be renewed.
For a detailed explanation, see our page on what happens if a rental property falls below EPC E.
MEES Exemptions
There are several exemption categories available under MEES:
- All improvements made: You have carried out all cost-effective improvements and the property still falls below E
- Wall insulation exemption: A surveyor confirms that cavity, external, or internal wall insulation would damage the property
- Consent exemption: A third party (such as a tenant, freeholder, or planning authority) has refused consent for the required works
- Devaluation exemption: An independent surveyor confirms the improvements would reduce the property value by more than 5%
- New landlord exemption: A temporary six-month exemption for landlords who have recently become responsible for a non-compliant property
All exemptions must be registered on the government’s PRS Exemptions Register with supporting evidence.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Local authorities are responsible for enforcing MEES. Penalties for letting a non-compliant property without a valid exemption can include:
- Up to £5,000 for breaches lasting less than three months
- Up to £150,000 for breaches lasting three months or more
- Publication of the landlord’s details on a public register
How Does MEES Affect Oxfordshire Landlords?
Oxfordshire has a high proportion of older properties, including stone-built cottages, period terraces, and listed buildings. Many of these properties face particular challenges in meeting energy efficiency standards due to solid walls, single glazing, or conservation restrictions.
For guidance specific to these property types, see our page on EPC advice for older and period properties in Oxfordshire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MEES apply to all rental properties?
MEES applies to most privately rented domestic properties in England and Wales that are legally required to have an EPC. Some property types, such as listed buildings that are formally exempt from EPCs, are not covered.
Can I still rent out a property rated F or G?
Only if you have registered a valid exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register. Without an exemption, it is unlawful to let a property rated below E.
Will the minimum rating increase to C?
The government has proposed raising the minimum to C. While the timeline is not yet confirmed, landlords are encouraged to plan ahead rather than wait for a firm deadline.
Book an EPC Assessment
If you are unsure whether your property meets MEES requirements, an up-to-date EPC assessment will give you a clear answer. E8 Property Services provides EPC assessments across Oxfordshire.
Book an EPC assessment or call 01865 339535 to discuss your property.