Thousands of commercial properties in the UK will not meet energy efficiency regulations.

That’s according to new research from Bensons Gas Engineering, revealing that 10.13% of leased commercial properties in Britain do not meet the EPC rating required by April next year.

These properties will be required to have a rating of E or above by this time and the report reveals that theatres, music halls and cinemas are least likely to achieve this, with just shy of 50% currently having a rating of F or G.

It explains that fines and costs will be incurred by landlords whose properties do not comply. If landlords rent out properties that have a rating of F or lower by April 2023, they will pay a fine ranging from £5,000 to £150,000.

The report stresses that landlords must have work carried out now to ensure the property is more energy efficient, such as replacing a boiler or insulation.

Some landlords are clearly shirking this responsibility according to the study, as 13.3% of commercial properties that currently have a rating of F or G are up for sale.

Out of the whole UK, it’s the capital where the problem is most rife, with 12% of Westminster properties being given an F or G rating.

The report warns that those selling properties will have to do so at a cut price if amendments to energy efficient haven’t been made.