Improving energy efficiency in private sector housing

Over the last year, the Private Sector Housing team have done a lot of work to enforce Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) throughout Brighton & Hove.  

MEES were introduced by the government to improve the quality and increase the energy efficiency of privately rented houses and buildings.    

The current MEES regulations mean that landlords must ensure their properties have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above.  

The impact of MEES in Brighton & Hove  

In the last 12 months, 740 privately rented properties in Brighton & Hove area were found to be rated F or G on their EPC – the lowest, and non-compliant, ratings. This cannot continue.  

Landlords in the city should be aware that if they fail to make improvements and do not keep their properties up to the required standard, they risk a financial penalty of up to £5,000 per breach, per property. The council will have no hesitation in implementing these penalties should landlords continue to fail to resolve any such issue.  

In addition to reducing the carbon footprint of privately rented properties, improving energy efficiency also offers tenants cheaper energy bills.   

Reducing carbon emissions 

Councillor Gill Williams, Chair of the Housing and New Homes Committee, said: “Housing is a major contributor to carbon emissions in the UK, so we are proud to have helped reduce the carbon footprint of many private sector properties in Brighton & Hove. 

“Our priority is always the health and safety of residents of Brighton & Hove. Failure to comply will not be tolerated. A low EPC rating often signifies related problems in the property. 

“More energy efficient properties are not only better for our environment; they are also cheaper to heat and more comfortable for tenants to live in.”   

Eight for Earth Day 

This story is part of our ‘Eight for Earth Day’ series, highlighting projects and actions the council and partners are taking, following on from Earth Day 2023. Earth Day recognises the positive actions of people making a difference to reducing the effects of climate change and restoring nature.