Retrofitting the UKs stock of social housing is something that shouldn’t be up for discussion. It’s something that deserves – and urgently needs – immediate attention and action.
In the article ‘Building Design’ by Chloe Phelps, the impact of inaction for social properties with poor thermal performance presented some shocking results. Just some of the areas for concern included rising fuel poverty, families inhabiting homes in disrepair and the country struggling to meet net-zero targets.
Improving more than just energy bills
In the UK, there are almost 5 million social homes. Of these 5 million homes, more than half have low Energy Performance Certificate ratings, making them cold and expensive to run, whilst also leaving tenants at risk of falling into fuel poverty.
Retrofit solutions from reputable suppliers, like Westdale Midlands, help to make homes warmer, more comfortable and healthier places for residents. This also actively works towards reducing the risk of illness linked to cold homes. Retrofitting with solutions such as External Wall Insulation (EWI) not only improves the thermal performance of a property, but it also reduces the burden of utility-related costs. Residents who receive whole-house retrofit solutions will see a drastic reduction in the cost of their energy bills, reducing the stress of living in today’s cost of living crisis.
But retrofitting brings a wide range of benefits beyond a warmer home. It keeps communities together by allowing people to stay in their homes, rather than forcing relocation due to demolition. It also boosts the local economy by creating job opportunities for those skilled in the trades required to carry out retrofit projects. Through the Westdale Training Academy, we’re able to go one step further and provide opportunities for locals to undergo training to be EWI Installers, strengthening the skills gap in the industry and providing people with job opportunities to support their future.
It’s also important to note the clear environmental benefit. By upgrading existing properties, retrofitting significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with the demolition of buildings and the construction of new homes.
Obstacles to overcome
It’s no secret that retrofitting requires a significant investment. In some cases, it can be as expensive as building a property from scratch, however, the long-term social, economic and environmental return is what favours the investment case.
But how can retrofitting become more accessible?
The support from the government plays a crucial role in making retrofit projects possible. Through funding schemes, incentives and policies, the financial barrier of retrofitting is reduced significantly and the accessibility for retrofit projects to take place increases.
Developing industry specific skills is also vital to ensuring retrofit project demand is met and delivered to the highest quality possible. Investing in upskilling workforces with retrofit specific skills not only ensures demand and quality levels are met but also creates career progressions within the industry.
Community is a huge part of all retrofit projects – and is something that’s at the core values for Westdale Midlands as a business. We dedicate time to involving residents within the process as this not only helps projects run smoother, but it also means we can provide reassurance. From listening to their needs and concerns to supporting them with any questions they may have throughout the process, residents are involved in the entire process to ensure they feel comfortable with what is going on in their home.
Retrofitting isn’t just an option, it’s a necessity. It plays a key role in tackling fuel poverty, transforming cold, expensive to run houses into warm, happy and efficient homes and keeping communities strong and connected.
Find out how we can support you with your next project. Learn more about our services or get in touch with us to discuss your specific requirements.
