Why 2025 Will Be a Pivotal Year for Mees and Epc Upgrades in Multi-Let Commercial Properties
With the UK advancing towards its 2050 net zero goals, 2025 will be a break-point year for commercial property investors—more so those who own multi-let buildings. New MEES 2025 regulations for multi-let buildings are set to rebalance compliance obligations, EPC ratings, and asset values across the country.
If you are a landlord or developer, this year may necessitate your sole attention—not just to avoid sanctions, but also to unlock true asset value through proactive refurbishment.
MEES for Multi-Occupied Commercial Buildings
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) legislation aims to raise the sustainability performance of UK buildings. From 2025, non-domestic rented premises will be required to meet a level of at least EPC rating C, with progressively more challenging targets likely after 2030.
For multi-tenanted commercial properties, this creates additional complexity. Upgrades must be coordinated through existing tenants, and exemptions may prove harder to obtain. Failure to comply will result in MEES penalties in the form of substantial fines and restrictions on leasing.
Associated Service: MEES Regulations for Non-Domestic Properties
Why EPC Ratings Matter More Than Ever
An underperforming or outdated EPC can have a material impact on lease transactions, value, and marketability. For multi-let offices, especially in older stock buildings, there is a high sense of urgency in improving ratings.
What can landlords do then?
Commission an EPC Plus report – This gives a comprehensive plan for upgrading property performance and overcoming compliance hurdles.
Use dynamic simulation modelling – On larger or more complex assets, the simulation of energy performance using in-depth building data can maximise upgrade plans.
Investigate Service: EPC Plus Reports for MEES Compliance
Expertise in Action: Dynamic Simulation Modelling for EPCs
Multi-Let Building Issues
EPC goals in multi-occupied property pose unique challenges:
Split upgrade responsibility among landlords and tenants
Access issues to common areas compared with tenant-controlled areas
Challenges of obtaining MEES exemptions for multi-let commercial properties due to stacked lease arrangements
A multi-let property compliance EPC Plus report will often be required. It will be able to identify targeted, cost-effective improvements that are aligned with your lease agreements, and enable phased upgrades with minimum disruption to tenants.
Priorities for Landlords 2024–2025
To give complete MEES compliance strategy for landlords 2025, take the following proactive step:
✅ Check your current EPC ratings, especially for buildings near the E or D rating
✅ Organise a Level 5 EPC surveyor for tricky or high-use properties
✅ Plan refits early—air con, lighting, and glasing are easy-win areas
✅ Stay current with MEES exemptions and evolving guidance in multi-let portfolios
Need Help? Find a Commercial EPC Level 5 Specialist Near You
Future-Proofing Property Value
Ultimately, compliance is not about avoiding fines—it's about unleashing asset value. Tenants increasingly want sustainability credentials. A compliant, efficient building is not only legally safer—it's marketable and set to achieve greater rental yields.
Investors who turn green for commercial refurbishments today will likely achieve greater valuation, tenant retention, and operating savings in the long term.
How CCA Environmental Can Help
At CCA Environmental, we specialise in guiding commercial property owners through every step of MEES compliance. From advanced EPC consultancy and EPC Plus reports to dynamic simulation modelling and Level 5 EPC inspections, our expert team gets your multi-let building compliant, energy-efficient, and future-proof.
Book a Consultation or Request an EPC Assessment Today
Final Thoughts
As 2025 approaches, the window to act is narrowing. Whether you’re overseeing one commercial building or managing a portfolio, staying ahead of EPC upgrades and MEES compliance is essential.
Don't wait until regulations force your hand—take action now to safeguard your property’s value and compliance.
