What is MEES and why do I need to be compliant as a landlord?
The government’s new Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) came into effect in 2018. The legislation meant that landlords had to make their properties energy efficient to a minimum ‘E’ rating on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). From 2025 the requirements are being increased, and all rental properties will need a minimum EPC rating of ‘C’ or above. Landlords will therefore need to ensure that their rental properties have an EPC rating of A, B or C in order to let their properties from 2025.
What are ECO Grants and how can they help landlords with MEES compliance?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government energy efficiency scheme in Great Britain. ECO grants are available to landlords to help make their rental properties more energy efficient where they have eligible tenants letting their properties. If eligible, ECO grants can be used to fund the installation of insulation and upgraded heating, and therefore comply with MEES.
Which properties are eligible for ECO grants?
ECO grants are available for landlords where they have an eligible tenant letting their property. The grant scheme is in its fourth phase (ECO4) and it takes a ‘whole house’ approach to increasing energy efficiency, which means there are a number of available grant options. The property needs to have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G and there needs to be a minimum uplift of 2 EPC points. For example a D rated property would need to be improved to a B rating, an E rated property to a C, and so on.
Which tenants are eligible for ECO grants?
To qualify for an ECO grant, your tenant must meet the following criteria:
- They must be in receipt of certain benefits or meet the local authorities flexible energy rules
- The property must be their only or main residence
If your tenant does not meet the above criteria they willnot be eligible.
How to apply for ECO Grant funding if you are a landlord
If you think your tenant may qualify for an ECO grant then you need to get in touch with an accredited provider. Once you have found a provider, they will assess whether your property is eligible and if it is, they will carry out a survey.
After the survey has been completed, the provider will give you an energy assessment and a proposal for works that includes key energy performance information.
If you are happy to proceed, you will be asked to complete a consent form and the works will be carried out. The installer arranges the installation and they claim the ECO funding on your behalf.
As a landlord, you could get up to £15,000 in funding towards energy efficiency improvements for your rental property. With grants like these available, there is no reason to delay.
You can find a list of accredited providers on the Government’s Trustmark website, or you can apply directly with a registered installer. Here at Construction Circle, we are accredited and can help you through the process from start to finish. Give us a call today on 01274 911099 or complete our quick contact form to see how we can help.
As a landlord, it is your responsibility to make sure your rental property is up to scratch and meets the minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES). ECO grants are the perfect way to ensure your property is compliant without spending a fortune (providing your property and tenants are eligible of course!).
Frequently asked questions about ECO Grants for landlords
What upgrades are covered by ECO4 funding?
The most common types of upgrades that are covered by ECO4 funding are:
- Draught-proofing
- Upgrading heating systems
- Smart thermostats and heating controls
- Installation of insulation including wall, floor, loft and roof insulation
- Renewable energy such as heat pumps and solar power
Unfortunately, double glazing grants are not included in this funding.
How to apply for a grant as a landlord?
If you’re a landlord, you can apply for a grant through our website. You’ll need to provide your property address and answer a few questions about your tenants. We will take care of the application process for you.
How can landlords benefit from the ECO scheme?
The government’s ECO scheme provides grants for energy efficiency improvements to help tackle fuel poverty. Landlords can benefit from the scheme if their tenants are eligible. Landlords can get very generous energy efficiency improvements for their properties, which will lower fuel bills and help tenants with rising energy costs.
How will the grant help landlords?
The grants can fund significant improvements to your rental property. Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) is a requirement that is coming, and the grants will ensure that you are ahead of the game. By making your property more energy efficient, you will make it cheaper to run and therefore more attractive to potential tenants.
ECO grants are very generous, and all landlords should check if their rental properties and tenants are able to access them. If you are a landlord you don’t want to miss out on grants while they are available. ECO Grants can provide financial assistance to help offset the cost of making your property more energy efficient and becoming MEES compliant. To find out if you qualify for funding and to apply get in touch with our friendly team today for a free no obligation assessment.
