MEES Exemptions for Commercial Property

If a commercial property cannot reach the EPC E minimum, you may still be able to let it by registering a valid exemption on the PRS Exemptions Register before the letting begins or continues.

The main exemptions

• All relevant improvements made: you have carried out every energy improvement that passes the seven-year payback test and the property still falls short of E.
• Seven-year payback: the improvement would not pay for itself in energy savings within seven years. Unlike the domestic regime, the non-domestic rules have no fixed cost cap, so payback is the test.
• Wall insulation devaluation: an independent expert confirms the measure would reduce the property's value or damage the fabric.
• Third-party consent refused: a tenant, lender, superior landlord or planning authority has refused consent for the works.
• Recently became landlord: a temporary exemption of six months where you have suddenly become a landlord in defined circumstances.

How to register

Exemptions are registered on the PRS Exemptions Register and must be in place before you let or continue to let. Most last five years (the recently-became-landlord exemption lasts six months). They are personal to the landlord: on a sale, the new owner must improve the property or register a fresh exemption.

Get the evidence right

Each exemption needs supporting evidence, such as the EPC recommendations, quotes, or an independent surveyor's report. Register before the letting, not after. Our MEES guide covers the minimum standard and penalties.

How long does a MEES exemption last?

Most last five years; the recently-become-landlord exemption lasts six months. They are personal to the landlord, so a new owner must improve the property or register a fresh exemption.

Where do I register a MEES exemption?

On the PRS Exemptions Register, before the letting begins or continues, with supporting evidence.