Government consultation on raising the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard for rented homes to EPC C. Proposed implementation 2028 for new tenancies, 2030 for all. Submissions close 30 June 2026.
The government has opened a formal consultation on raising the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) for the private rented sector in England from the current EPC E to EPC C. The proposed implementation timeline is phased: new tenancies from 2028 and all existing tenancies from 2030. The consultation closes 30 June 2026.
The consultation document sets out the proposed cost cap (the maximum landlords would be required to spend before claiming an exemption), the exemption register process, and the enforcement regime. Landlords with properties currently rated D or below would be most significantly affected. The government is inviting evidence from landlords on retrofit costs, grid connection constraints, and rural property challenges.
Landlords are encouraged to review their portfolio's current EPC ratings against the proposed standard and consider submitting a response to the consultation. The consultation document is available on GOV.UK. Landlord Insights will publish a full briefing in the next Monday briefing, including a summary of the key questions and how to respond.
Action required
Review your portfolio's current EPC ratings against the proposed standard. Consider submitting a response to the consultation before 30 June 2026.
Effective
Proposed 2028 (new tenancies) · 2030 (all tenancies) · England
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