All terms
legal
MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards)
Regulations requiring rented residential property to have an EPC of band E or above. Proposed tightening to band C by 2028 for new lets, 2030 for existing.
In simple terms
You can't legally let out a property that scores too low on its energy rating.
Example
A landlord with an F-rated terrace must either upgrade (insulation, glazing) or stop letting it.
If you're buying
Sub-C properties may need £5k–£25k of upgrades to be lettable under the proposed 2028 rules.
If you're selling
Landlords are increasingly forced sellers of F/G stock — auction pipelines are full of these.
Related terms