Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard
From April 2020, in England and Wales, private rented properties must normally have a minimum energy performance rating of E on an EPC. If this is not the case, the property is likely failing to meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard requirements set by the government.
Properties not meeting the minimum E rating are called ‘sub-standard properties’. The landlord is then registered and obliged to bring the property up to the required standard (unless an exemption applies). The property cannot be let unless the work is done.
Local authorities enforce compliance with the regulations.1Reg 34 EE(PRP)(E&W) Regs A financial penalty and/or a publication penalty (recorded on the private rented sector exemptions penalty register) may be imposed on a landlord who breaches these obligations.2Reg 38 EE(PRP)(E&W) Regs