Landlords could face fines of up to £150,000 if the properties they rent fall below minimum energy-rating standards when new laws come into force in 2018.
Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) regulations, which will be brought into effect from 1 April 2018, it will be unlawful for landlords to grant new leases for properties which have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating below ‘E’, unless the building is exempt.
From 1 April 2023, MEES will then apply to all lettings, both new and existing, and a landlord will be in breach of these regulations if they continue to let a property which falls below the minimum energy rating criteria.Landlords are being advised by law firm Shulmans to take action now to avoid legal headaches.
They advise that the terms of any leases, both new and existing, need to be reviewed to ensure landlords have the necessary tools to deal with MEES.
