Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in England and Wales, leasing a commercial property with a low EPC rating has strict legal implications.

1. Legal Requirement

  • Most commercial properties must have an EPC rating of E or above to be legally rented.

  • Properties with a rating of F or G cannot be leased to new tenants unless a valid exemption is registered.

  • This applies to offices, shops, warehouses, and other non-domestic buildings.

Book an EPC assessment:
https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/

2. What Is a Valid Exemption?

Exemptions allow landlords to rent a low-rated property temporarily. Common exemptions include:

  • Deemed impractical to make improvements (structural or listed buildings)

  • Costs outweigh benefits (improvement costs exceed threshold compared to property value)

  • Tenant has refused upgrades

Learn more about exemptions and compliance:
https://epcrate.co.uk/services-epc-assessors-london/

3. Consequences of Ignoring MEES

Leasing a property rated F or G without an exemption can lead to:

  • Fines up to £150,000 for non-compliance

  • Difficulty enforcing leases

  • Reputational damage with tenants and agents

Check EPC pricing and arrange legal compliance:
https://epcrate.co.uk/pricing/

4. How to Lease Legally With a Low EPC

If your building has a low rating:

  1. Upgrade the property — insulation, heating, lighting, glazing

  2. Register a valid exemption if upgrades are impractical

  3. Document improvements to support compliance

Book a professional assessment:
https://epcrate.co.uk/about-us-epc-company-london/

✅ Key Takeaways

  • F or G rating = cannot legally lease unless exempt

  • Upgrades or exemptions are mandatory for compliance

  • Ignoring MEES can result in major fines and legal issues

Need advice from a certified assessor?
https://epcrate.co.uk/contact-us-epc-services-london/

Office: 150–160 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX
Phone: 020 3488 4142
Email: info@epcrate.co.uk