Landlords ‘must boost awareness of energy exemptions’
Summary
The NRLA says awareness of MEES exemptions is low among landlords ahead of planned changes that would raise the minimum EPC requirement for privately rented homes from E to C in England and Wales. The article highlights that older, harder-to-retrofit homes may be eligible for exemptions, but many landlords do not understand the rules or have not registered exemptions.
Why it matters
Surveyors advising landlords, buyers or investors may need to explain how the proposed MEES changes, EPC methodology updates and exemption routes could affect asset value, compliance and retrofit strategy. This is particularly relevant for older stock where upgrade costs may be high and exemption eligibility may influence disposal or retention decisions.
Key points
- NRLA data suggests low awareness of MEES exemptions among landlords.
- Planned reforms would raise the minimum EPC requirement for private rentals from E to C.
- The Home Energy Model (HEM) is set to replace the current EPC assessment system.
- Older pre-1919 rental homes may be more difficult and costly to retrofit.
- A property value exemption is referenced for homes worth less than £100,000.
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