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ARTICLE · 19 MARCH 2015

New Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards For Commercially Let Properties From April 2018

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The law on environmental requirements for commercial property is changing. This bulletin tells you what you need to know.

United KingdomReal Estate and Construction
Claire Haynes
Claire Haynes

The law on environmental requirements for commercial property is changing. This bulletin tells you what you need to know.

Why have the draft Regulations been issued?

In accordance with the Government's overarching objective of reducing carbon and greenhouse gas emissions, the Energy Act 2011 requires the Government to improve the energy efficiency of buildings in the privately rented sector. 

If enacted, the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 (the Regulations) will apply to all eligible leases of commercial premises in the sector.

What are the key dates and standards?

  • From 1 April 2018 properties will be required to have at least an "E" Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating upon the grant of a lease by a landlord to a new or existing tenant.  This requirement is in line with the residential sector.

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