What is a Retrofit?
Retrofit was introduced to work alongside the new specification for PAS2035:2019. Retrofit aims to look at a property as a whole as opposed to making improvements to a dwelling individually and adopts a “fabric first” approach.
The Fabric First approach is the way in which energy efficient improvements can be made, typically the building's insulation (fabric) is improved first before considering improving heating systems and adding any low carbon technologies.
A quality mark has been introduced for the domestic retrofit sector which is overseen by the Government Endorsed Quality Scheme, TrustMark. All government supported projects such as ECO must comply with the standards set out under PAS2035:2019. We also offer commercial and domestic EPCs as well as domestic retrofits.
The Process
Firstly a retrofit coordinator will be appointed by any potential client, from there an appraisal of the dwelling will be carried out by a retrofit assessor, A retrofit designer will then make the necessary design for the property to ensure the works are being carried out to a strict process that manages any existing thermal bridges and ventilation requirements. A retrofit Installer will then carry out the improvement works that have been agreed. Once the works have been carried out the Retrofit Coordinator will submit all the documents to Trustmark to ensure quality and compliance is maintained.
Retrofit Assessment
A retrofit assessment involves an appraisal of the dwelling's fabric, services and condition. The dwelling is assessed and an Energy Performance Certificate, Occupancy Assessment and Condition Report is produced highlighting the improvements that can be made and any remedial works that are required before that improvement can be made. An assessor will survey the whole building taking account of current levels of insulation, existing heating systems, any present ventilation systems and the presence of any Condensation, dampness and mould.
Retrofit Coordination
A retrofit coordinator is required for each retrofit project that works to PAS2035:2019. It is their responsibility to oversee the project ensuring the works remain compliant and that the works are being carried out to the standard set out in PAS2035:2019. The coordinator will liaise with all involved parties and they will set out the pathway of improvements for the dwelling.
Ventilation
A dwelling's existing ventilation may be required to be upgraded for any potential works to be carried out under PAS2035:2019. As we improve the building's fabric the natural ventilation that a property has is dramatically reduced therefore things such as mechanical ventilation, trickle vents for windows, fresh air vents and undercuts on internal doors are required to be assessed and where necessary upgraded. This is ultimately to reduce and manage the risk that condensation presents which can be detrimental to the building’s fabric, materials and occupants.
Get in Touch for Domestic Retrofits in Lanarkshire and the surrounding areas
For more information on our domestic retrofits in Lanarkshire, get in touch with Home Energy Lanarkshire on 01698 207917 or email info@homeenergylanarkshire.co.uk