Regulations · Glossary
MEES
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards — the regulation requiring rented properties in England and Wales to meet at least EPC band E (rising to C from 2028).
MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards) apply to privately rented residential and commercial properties in England and Wales. Since April 2020, all rented homes must meet at least EPC E to be lawfully let, with limited exemptions (typically 5-year all-improvements exemption, listed-building exemption, devaluation exemption).
The proposed tightening (currently consultation-stage but widely expected) would require EPC C for all new tenancies from April 2028, and all existing tenancies from April 2030 — see EPC C 2028. For Cornwall landlords, that means rural off-gas oil-heated properties at EPC E or D will likely need a heat pump retrofit plus insulation upgrade to comply.
CCS works with several Cornwall landlord groups on bulk MEES upgrades, leveraging the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4 funding. See our landlord services page or call 01209 596 002.