If you own or manage a commercial building, preparing for MEES 2026 compliance is essential. Under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), landlords cannot legally lease commercial properties with an EPC rating below E — unless a valid exemption is registered.

With enforcement tightening and potential future increases to minimum standards under the UK Government energy efficiency strategy, now is the time to act.

Step 1: Check Your Current Commercial EPC

Start by reviewing:

  • Your current EPC rating

  • The certificate expiry date (valid for 10 years)

  • The recommendation report

If your certificate is close to expiry, arrange a reassessment:
https://epcrate.co.uk/booking/

If you don’t know your rating, consult certified assessors:
https://epcrate.co.uk/services-epc-assessors-london/

Step 2: Understand the Legal Minimum in 2026

As of 2026:

  • Commercial properties must have E rating or above to be legally let

  • Properties rated F or G cannot be leased without an exemption

  • Local authorities can impose financial penalties for non-compliance

Even if your building is currently compliant, planning improvements early protects against future regulatory changes.

Step 3: Review the EPC Recommendation Report

Your EPC includes a list of suggested improvements ranked by impact and cost-effectiveness.

Common recommendations include:

  • Upgrading to LED lighting

  • Installing modern heating controls

  • Improving insulation

  • Replacing inefficient HVAC systems

Focus first on measures that provide the biggest improvement for the lowest cost.

Step 4: Prioritise High-Impact, Cost-Effective Upgrades

To reach or maintain EPC E or above quickly, consider:

✔ Lighting Upgrades

Switch to LED lighting and add occupancy sensors.

✔ Heating & Controls

Install programmable thermostats and zoning systems.

✔ Insulation Improvements

Upgrade roof, wall, or pipe insulation.

✔ Glazing Improvements

Install double glazing or improve draught-proofing.

Small changes can sometimes move a property up one band — especially if your score is close to the threshold.

Step 5: Consider Capital Investment Where Necessary

If your property is rated deep F or G, more significant improvements may be required:

  • Boiler replacement

  • HVAC upgrades

  • Renewable energy installation (e.g., solar panels)

While these involve higher upfront costs, they also:

  • Reduce long-term energy bills

  • Improve asset value

  • Increase tenant appeal

Step 6: Reassess and Lodge a New EPC

After improvements are completed:

  • A qualified assessor must reassess the building

  • The SBEM calculation is updated

  • A new certificate is lodged on the national register

Check pricing before booking:
https://epcrate.co.uk/pricing/

Meet our company:
https://epcrate.co.uk/about-us-epc-company-london/

Step 7: Check for Valid Exemptions (If Applicable)

If improvements are not technically or financially viable, you may qualify for:

  • Seven-year payback exemption

  • All improvements made exemption

  • Devaluation exemption

However, exemptions must be properly registered and evidenced — they are not automatic.

Why Act Before 2026?

Waiting until enforcement action begins can result in:

  • Financial penalties

  • Inability to legally lease property

  • Reputational damage

  • Lost rental income

Proactive compliance ensures your property remains legally lettable and commercially attractive.

Final Checklist for MEES 2026 Preparation

  • ✔ Confirm current EPC rating

  • ✔ Review recommendation report

  • ✔ Prioritise quick improvements

  • ✔ Plan capital upgrades if required

  • ✔ Reassess and lodge new EPC

  • ✔ Register exemptions if eligible

Preparing early is far more cost-effective than reacting under pressure.

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