EPC's and MEES

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legally required document that provides information on a building's energy efficiency. It is used in many countries, such as the European Union and the United Kingdom, to help property owners and tenants make informed decisions about energy use and encourage sustainable building practices.

The EPC rates a building's energy efficiency from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G being the least.
The rating considers the building's insulation, heating system, lighting, and ventilation. Additionally, the EPC provides recommendations for improvements that can be made to increase the building's energy efficiency. This document allows for a visual comparison of a property's energy performance, similar to energy labels on appliances.

EPCs are necessary for various residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and are generally valid for 10 years. However, they may need to be updated earlier if significant changes are made to the building.

While EPCs promote energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, their rating system may not always accurately reflect a building's energy use, as it is based on assumptions about typical usage patterns.

The Government's Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) require a minimum level of energy efficiency for buildings before they can be rented. These standards aim to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and save money on energy bills.
Since April 2020, privately rented properties in the UK have required a minimum energy performance rating of E, with stricter requirements on the horizon. The Government plans to raise the minimum EPC rating for newly rented property from 'E' to 'C' in 2025, with existing tenancies having until 2028 to comply.

You can find more detail about MEES here

If you have any questions about EPCs in relation to your property, feel free to contact Woodward Chartered Surveyors. Our surveyors are happy to provide further information and assistance.

Adam Stimpson BA (Hons) AssocRICS is one of our Associate Chartered Surveyors at Woodward Chartered Surveyors. 

Woodward Chartered Surveyors cover an area from East of Oxford, High Wycombe, Beaconsfield, Amersham, Berkhamsted, Watford, Rickmansworth and into London, Northwood, Uxbridge, Harrow, Ealing and Mayfair.