Energy efficiency rules
Energy efficiency rules are the legal requirements that govern how energy efficient your rented property must be, and what upgrades you must carry out, as a landlord in the Private Rented Sector (PRS). They sit alongside standards on safety and disrepair as core rental standards.
At present, the key framework is the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which make it unlawful to let most properties with an EPC below the required band unless a valid exemption is registered. Under the Renters’ Rights Act, government is moving towards higher rate efficiency standards (HRAD), typically aiming for EPC C or equivalent and tying compliance more tightly to the wider Decent Homes Standard and Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
From a landlord’s perspective, that means planning both capital improvements (insulation, windows, heating systems, low-carbon tech) and ongoing revenue expenses (servicing and optimisation). Poor performance can contribute to a finding that a home is not fit for human habitation, trigger action under Awaab’s Law if damp and mould follow, and lead to enforcement by the Local Housing Authority (LHA).
Meeting energy efficiency rules will be recorded through the PRS Database and scrutinised by the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman in complaints about cold, damp homes. Professional landlords treat energy upgrades as part of long-term asset.
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