In the run-up to the enforcement of the new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and since its implementation, we have been busy working with clients to ensure they are compliant with the new regulations.
Buildings with an Asset Rating of an F or G cannot be leased out to new tenants; unless energy efficiency improvements are made.
Therefore, a new Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be issued demonstrating that the building has improved its Asset Rating to a band E or better. Some of our clients already have EPCs in place and some require new certificates to be issued, and we’ve been working with them to help them be compliant with the MEES legislation.
Where there is no EPC in place, our accredited level 5 energy assessors can calculate the current EPC Asset Rating. If the Asset Rating falls into the F-G rating category, we can work with building or estate managers to advise exactly what changes are required to achieve the required energy efficiency improvements and the required Asset Rating to make the building compliant in the most cost-effective way. If the Asset Rating meets the MEES requirements, we can issue a new compliant EPC.
Our clients are also very conscious of (and some are already working towards) the April 2023 change in MEES. This is when all commercial properties that are leased out must have an EPC with an Asset Rating in the A-E banding in place. This is regardless of whether there is sitting tenant already in place, they are renewing their existing lease, or they are a new tenant.
One client we are working with has a large property portfolio and we have prepared an EPC Improvement Report for their guidance. This provides several recommendations which, once implemented, will help to improve existing Asset Ratings to reach the compliance level. The report demonstrates how individual recommendation will affect the overall EPC Asset Rating and forecasts all anticipated costs.
For more information about TEAM’s EPC and MEES support service, click here.
For help and advice about the MEES Legislation or with your EPC, contact us.