Commercial MEES Timeline

The EPC minimum to let commercial property, the 2031 proposal, and the penalties. The correct, current position.

The trajectory

EPC E minimum to let (in force)

Since 1 Apr 2023

EPC B for buildings over 1,000 m² (proposed, not law)

2031

EPC C by 2027 / B by 2030

WITHDRAWN

Buildings under 1,000 m²

Stay at EPC E

The EPC B by 2031 standard is announced, not law: it needs secondary legislation. A great deal of older guidance still repeats the withdrawn EPC C by 2027 and B by 2030 dates.

Penalties (by rateable value)

Breach under 3 months

Up to 50,000

Breach of 3 months or more

Up to 150,000

There is no domestic-style cost cap. The seven-year payback test decides whether an improvement is required.

England & Wales

DESNZ response 18 Jun 2026

Source: GOV.UK non-domestic MEES guidance. Verify the current position, as this area moves.