The MEES Regulations make it unlawful from April 2018 to let commercial or domestic buildings in England and Wales, which do not achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate rating of E.

The minimum energy efficiency standard (MEES) was introduced in March 2015 by the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015. The MEES Regulations originate from the Energy Act 2011 which contained the previous coalition government's package of energy efficiency policies including the Green Deal.

From 1 April 2018, landlords of buildings within the scope of the MEES Regulations must not renew existing tenancies or grant new tenancies if the building has less than the minimum energy performance certificate (EPC) rating of E unless the landlord registers an exemption.

After 1 April 2023, landlords must not continue to let any buildings which have an EPC rating of less than E unless the landlord registers an exemption.

Comprehensive guidance has been published by the government, which you can find at    www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-non-domestic-private-rented-property-minimum-standard-landlord-guidance

There are exemptions, one being through the 'Seven Year Test'. Any energy efficiency improvement measures will only be required where the payback is achieved in seven years or less.

Upgrading to LED lighting, in the majority of cases, will provide payback well within seven years, so will therefore not be exempt.

With a vast range of retro-fit LED lighting options available, the change to LED in your office, warehouse or factory need not cost a fortune. Furthermore, any disruption and associated mess is kept to a minimum.

We offer free lighting surveys, with helpful advice and guidance to assist you through the process.