Greater Clarity Emerging on Future Commercial EPC Requirements
Following a number of recent conversations with clients about the future of commercial EPC regulations, we wanted to share the latest position from Government.
For some time, there has been considerable uncertainty and speculation around how Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for non-domestic properties might evolve beyond the current requirements. While the proposals are not yet enshrined in legislation, the Government’s interim response provides the clearest indication to date of the likely direction of travel.
Under the proposals, from 2031 commercial properties larger than 10,000 sq ft (1,000 sq m) would be required to achieve a minimum EPC rating of B. Properties below this threshold are expected to remain subject to the existing MEES regulations, requiring a minimum EPC rating of E.
Although further consultation and the full legislative process are still to come, this guidance offers the strongest indication yet of the future regulatory landscape for larger commercial assets.
You can read the Government’s interim response here:
With 2031 now less than five years away, landlords, investors and occupiers of larger commercial properties should begin considering the potential implications for their portfolios, including the improvement works that may be required to achieve compliance and safeguard long-term asset value.
If you’d like to discuss how these proposed changes could affect your property assets, please get in touch with Mark Marshall and his team.
