Compliance & Safety8 min readLast reviewed 2 July 2026
EPC and MEES Requirements for Landlords in England
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards require an EPC rating of E or above to let a property in England, with a C rating target by 2030.
England only. This guide applies to private rented property in England. Wales and Scotland have separate legal frameworks — dedicated guides will be published separately.
Key takeaways
- Properties in England must have a valid EPC before marketing for rent.
- The minimum EPC rating to let is E under MEES regulations — F and G rated properties cannot be let (unless exempt).
- The government confirmed the minimum will rise to C by 1 October 2030 for new and renewing tenancies.
- Penalties for letting below minimum standard: up to £5,000 per property per breach.
- A valid EPC must be provided to tenants before occupation.
What are EPC and MEES?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property's energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations 2015 prohibit letting properties below EPC rating E in England and Wales.
Current requirements
- Obtain an EPC before marketing the property.