MEES is live, but future EPC uplifts are not yet law
EPC E remains the general current minimum for in-scope domestic and non-domestic private rented property unless a valid exemption applies. The 2026 domestic and non-domestic responses set different future policy routes, both still requiring legislation.
Where MEES stands now
The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 remain the legal baseline. In-scope private rented property generally needs at least EPC E unless a valid exemption applies. This current duty should not be confused with later policy announcements.
Domestic private rented homes: policy for 1 October 2030
The 21 January 2026 government response sets a single 1 October 2030 compliance date for a higher domestic standard and a £10,000 cost cap. This is confirmed policy direction, not the current legal standard: government still needs new powers in primary legislation and a statutory instrument, and the changes remain subject to Parliamentary approval.
Non-domestic: EPC C dropped and targeted EPC B proposed
The 18 June 2026 interim response confirms that the previously proposed EPC C milestone for 2027 will not be taken forward. It proposes EPC B from 2031, where cost-effective, only for private rented buildings over 1,000 square metres; smaller buildings are intended to remain at EPC E. The larger-building uplift will take effect only if secondary legislation passes.
What this means for London property
London stock is disproportionately exposed: period homes, mixed-use parades, older offices, solid-wall buildings and heritage constraints all make EPC rating improvement more complex than ordering a certificate. Ratings also move with assessment methodology, so a building re-assessed today may score differently from its certificate on the register.
A practical compliance plan
First audit the EPC, letting position and exemptions. Then separate work needed for the current EPC E duty from planning against future policy. Scope proportionate measures alongside maintenance, retrofit and refurbishment, and obtain accredited energy-assessor and legal input before relying on a rating or exemption.
Where a surveyor fits in
We provide independent MEES and EPC advisory for London landlords and property owners: reviewing the register position against the building as it actually stands, prioritising exposure, and integrating upgrade packages into planned maintenance and refurbishment programmes. EPC assessments themselves are produced by accredited energy assessors; our role is the building-side strategy.
Primary sources (checked 18 July 2026)
Current domestic MEES guidance; current non-domestic MEES guidance; domestic government response, 21 January 2026; and non-domestic interim response, 18 June 2026.
Where this usually links to live instructions
MEES & EPC Compliance Advisory
Independent analysis of the current EPC E baseline and the distinct future domestic and non-domestic policy routes.
View ServicePlanned Maintenance Surveys
Condition data and prioritised programmes that let EPC upgrades ride on planned works.
View ServiceTechnical Due Diligence
MEES exposure flagged within acquisition and lending due diligence.
View ServicePrimary sources and further reading
Links checked 18 July 2026. These primary and professional sources provide general context; they do not confirm how the guide applies to a particular building or appointment.
Source material
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MEES & EPC Advisory
Specialist review still required
An accredited energy assessor and property lawyer should confirm current duties, exemptions and every future-target or policy-direction statement before reliance.
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Savas Bulduk
BSc (Hons) MRICS, Director & Chartered Building Surveyor.
Writes on Building surveying, Fire safety and facade, External wall systems, Technical due diligence, Contract administration. See the full team profile.