Many people are concerned about the climate crisis and rising energy costs and would like to make improvements to their home to reduce their energy usage and their carbon footprint.
However, many are unsure where to start, don’t know which measures would suit their particular property,or don’t know which measures would be most effective.
That’s where our introduction to retrofit comes in.
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Retrofit means upgrading an existing property to make it warmer, cheaper to run, less draughty and more comfortable to live in. This is done by improving the insulation, air permeability and heating system. It also includes a ventilation system to provide good air quality in your home.
By improving the energy efficiency, retrofit also reduces carbon emissions and improves the appearance and the security of your home.
What's available?
What measures and technologies are available?
· Draught proofing
· Insulation – loft, walls, and floors
· Ventilation
· Replacement windows (double & triple glazed) and thermally efficient doors
· Airtightness
· Low carbon heating systems – air & ground source heat pumps, solar PV, biomass
How do we measure energy efficiency?
Energy Efficiency is measured through an Energy Performance Certificate, most commonly referred to as an EPC, which provides:
• information on how energy efficient a building is
• rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient)
• estimated heating and lighting costs
• estimated carbon emissions
• recommendations to improve energy efficiency
An Energy Performance Certificate is legally required when a property is built,rented, or sold. It is valid for 10 years. Only accredited Energy Assessors can produce valid EPCs.
It is advisable to retain all documentation and photographs of retrofit work, as evidence for future assessments.
How does a Retrofit project work?
A typical retrofit project is done in five stages:
1. Retrofit Assessment: A Retrofit Assessor will visit your property to collect property data/information to produce an Energy Report, Occupancy Report and Condition Report. Depending on the size or complexity of the property, a typical assessment can take between 1-2 hours to complete.
2. Bespoke Plan Created: Using the data from the assessment, a Retrofit Coordinator creates a bespoke plan of measures suitable for your home. This can be completed in stages but preferably in conjunction with other building work to reduce costs and disruption.
3. Quotes Obtained: Quotes for the works are obtained from approved retrofit contractors.
4. Retrofit Work Starts: A preferred contractor is chosen; contracts are signed and work begins.
5. Retrofit Work Completed and Checked
PAS2035 is a national standard for carrying out retrofit projects to ensure that the right work is done using the appropriate logic & adequate consultation, with the ultimate aim of improving the quality of living and comfort for tenants.
Dive into our videos and fact sheets.
