To procure support for a research project to assess barriers to engagement with Private Sector Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and proposed strategy to overcome barriers

In 2018 the government introduced minimum energy efficiency standards for privately rented properties (MEES). This required all rental properties to achieve an EPC E before it could be let, unless the landlord was able to demonstrate an appropriate exemption as identified in the legislation. Experience of the implementation of MEES has been varied across the four UA's. Bristol City Council was successful in receiving grant funding for the MEES pilot and this enabled them to undertake a review of exemptions, identifying questionable practices and highlighting landlords that were not compliant. The learning from this and a subsequent round of funding has resulted in BEIS developing an online toolkit which is due to be published soon (date unknown). The private rented sector is a large proportion of properties in the region (approx 30%) and has seen the biggest rise in the last 20 years. Coupled with the high percentage of traditional, solid wall construction properties (hard to treat) and a similarly high number of conservation areas and listed buildings in use as private rental properties, there are significant challenges to improving the energy efficiency of these properties. Previous programmes that have supported energy efficiency improvements through government funded grants have had little impact on the PRS sector locally. As legislation demands a progressive move to higher EPC ratings over the coming years compliance will be required from the sector. Establishing an effective programme now is likely to support the sector meet its commitments with less reliance on enforcement. WECA has been awarded just under £20,000 from the Local Government Association, Housing Advisors Fund to investigate the barriers local authorities face in engaging private domestic landlords with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, improving the energy efficiency of their properties and local authority administered funding to support this. The Authority has provided match funding to deliver a wider scope on the research area and provide greater value for money in this important area. The combined value of these two funding streams equates to a maximum contract value of £40,000. Please see linked RFQ for further details.