What MEES is
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard sets a floor on how energy efficient a rented property may be. Since April 2020 it applies to all existing tenancies in England and Wales, not only new lettings.
The current threshold
Band E is the minimum. Letting a property rated F or G without a registered exemption can attract penalties from the local authority.
The cost cap
Landlords are not expected to spend without limit. A cost cap applies to the improvements required, and where a property cannot reach band E within that cap, a high cost exemption may be registered.
Registering an exemption
Exemptions are not automatic. They must be registered on the PRS Exemptions Register, they generally last five years, and they do not transfer to a new owner.
Getting from F to E
Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, hot water cylinder jackets and low energy lighting are usually the cheapest routes to moving up a band. See our guide to improving your EPC rating.