Many commercial landlords are unaware that the next phase of MEES regulations could affect whether a building can legally be rented. MEES stands for Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards and applies to all non domestic properties in England and Wales.
If a property does not meet the required EPC rating, it may legally become unlettable.
With thousands of commercial leases renewing every year and stricter EPC legislation approaching, now is the time to act. Delaying upgrades often increases costs later and limits eligibility for MEES exemptions.
What are MEES regulations and why do they matter?
MEES regulations for non domestic properties were introduced to improve building energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. These rules use the Energy Performance Certificate to measure efficiency. EPC ratings range from A to G, where A is most efficient.
The UK minimum energy efficiency standards EPC currently prohibit new leases for commercial buildings with an EPC rating below E. The next phases of MEES will require properties to meet higher grades.
MEES regulations support the government’s net zero target. For landlords, they directly influence rental income, operational costs and property value.
The upcoming changes: What landlords must prepare for
The government is moving toward tighter EPC requirements. The current proposed milestones are:
-
- 2025: Properties that do not meet an EPC rating of C will be flagged as non compliant
- 2030: All commercial properties will need an EPC rating of B
Although dates are subject to government confirmation, the expectation remains that upgrading energy performance is unavoidable. Waiting until legislation is officially enforced can create a rush and limit contractor availability.
If a building fails to meet MEES compliance, it may be:
-
- Unlettable
- Subject to fines that can reach up to 150 thousand pounds depending on rateable value
- Devalued in terms of resale potential
The financial impact is far greater than the cost of early energy improvements.
How to find out if your building is at risk
Start by reviewing your current Energy Performance Certificate. If your EPC rating is D, E, F or G, you should begin planning improvements immediately.
You may need advanced assessment if:
-
- The building has complex HVAC systems
- Multiple zones or irregular layouts affect energy modelling
- Previous EPC was based on assumptions or standard software
- A standard EPC is not enough for complex buildings. In this case, a Level 5 EPC is required.
CCA Environmental are commercial EPC Level 5 specialists and can determine if you need a higher grade certificate.
How to achieve MEES compliance without unnecessary costs
Compliance does not always mean expensive upgrades. Small optimisations can often raise EPC ratings.
A strong starting point is an EPC Plus report for MEES compliance.
This report shows your current rating, identifies the quickest improvements and prevents overspending on unnecessary measures.
Our EPC consultancy for MEES legislation helps you determine:
-
- The minimum changes needed to reach the required rating
- What upgrades are most cost effective
- Whether MEES exemptions apply
Examples of improvement measures:
-
- LED lighting upgrades
- HVAC optimisation
- Equipment sequencing
- Insulation improvements
Some landlords only need minor changes to meet the next threshold.
Advanced solutions for complex buildings
For buildings with central plant systems, mixed use floors or complicated layouts, advanced modelling is required.
CCA Environmental specialises in:
TM54 assessments help predict real world building performance instead of theoretical EPC assumptions. This reduces the performance gap and ensures investment in upgrades delivers measurable results.
Can you apply for a MEES exemption?
Some landlords qualify for MEES exemptions. These include:
-
- Situations where all cost effective measures have already been carried out
- Cases where improvements negatively affect the building’s structure or character
- When tenant consent is required and cannot be obtained
- Listed buildings with restrictions preventing upgrades
However, exemptions are not automatic. They require evidence and must be recorded on the government PRS Exemptions Register.
CCA Environmental assists with full exemption documentation and submission.
How CCA Environmental helps commercial landlords stay compliant
CCA Environmental offers a full service approach to MEES compliance for commercial buildings.
Our services include:
We work with property investors, commercial landlords, asset managers and surveyors across the UK.
Our process:
-
- Review the existing EPC
- Conduct EPC Plus or Level 5 EPC survey
- Recommend the most cost effective upgrades
- Support MEES exemptions if applicable
You receive clear actions that protect your property from becoming unlettable.
FAQs
1. What EPC rating do commercial buildings need by 2030?
The proposed target is EPC rating B for all commercial properties.
2. What happens if a building fails MEES?
It may become legally unlettable and subject to financial penalties.
3. How long does MEES compliance take?
A standard EPC Plus report can be completed within days. Level 5 EPC surveys depend on complexity.
4. Is a Level 5 EPC assessor required for every building?
Only for complex buildings with advanced systems or multiple zones.
Speak to a Level 5 EPC specialist
Do you want to make sure your commercial property stays lettable?
Talk to CCA Environmental today. Our qualified Level 5 EPC assessors can help you secure MEES compliance and avoid costly enforcement.
👉 Book your consultation: 020 3514 3080