The initial impacts of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in England
Journal of Property Investment & Finance
ISSN: 1463-578X
Article publication date: 1 May 2020
Issue publication date: 5 August 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The paper investigates the initial impacts on asset management and valuation practice of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) introduced in England and Wales from April 2018 for new lettings.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper reports findings from a small-scale pilot study of valuers, asset managers, lawyers and building consultants. Interviews were conducted over the summer of 2019 and explored the impact on practice and market values and perceived links to the carbon reduction agenda. Data were analysed thematically manually and using NVivo software.
Findings
Participants welcomed MEES but many had doubts about the use of energy performance certificates (EPCs) as the appropriate baseline measure. Compliance was perceived as too easy; further, enforcement is not occurring. Vanguard investors have aligned portfolios for carbon reduction; others have not. Lease practices are changing with landlords seeking greater control over tenant behaviours. Valuers reported that whilst MEES consideration is embedded in due diligence processes, there is limited value impact.
Research limitations/implications
The study is limited by its small-scale and that the MEES regulations are not yet fully implemented. However, the research provides early findings and lays out recommendations for future research by identifying areas in which the regulations are/are not proving effective to date.
Practical implications
The findings will inform investors, consultants and policy makers.
Social implications
Achieving energy efficiency in buildings is critical to driving down carbon emission; it also has economic and social benefits through cost savings and reducing fuel poverty.
Originality/value
Believed to be the first post-implementation qualitative study of MEES.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors wish to acknowledge the the financial support of the Reading Real Estate Foundation. They also wish to thank the interviewees who were so generous with their time.
Citation
Sayce, S.L. and Hossain, S.M. (2020), "The initial impacts of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in England", Journal of Property Investment & Finance, Vol. 38 No. 5, pp. 435-447. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPIF-01-2020-0013
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited