This case study focuses on a retirement housing development managed by Anchor, England’s largest provider of specialist housing and care for older people. The development consists of 28 retirement flats, with the project aiming to improve energy efficiency using funding from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (now the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund) Wave 2.1. We were commissioned to assess these properties by Value Optimised Retrofit (VOR), Retrofit Designers and Coordinators, who were commissioned by Wates, the primary contractor.

The Challenge

The project sought to address multiple challenges related to energy efficiency, energy demand, damp and mould, and energy costs. The intended specific outcomes were:

The Solution: What was undertaken?

In Newbury between the 20th of May and the 3rd of June 2024, we conducted PAS 2035-compliant retrofit assessments and testing to deliver a comprehensive view of building performance. Key actions included:

Before our initial visit, we carried out a brief archetype survey of the properties, categorising key characteristics to streamline assessments and increase on-site efficiency. Selected properties underwent more comprehensive testing, including blower door air tightness tests.

This project was a great opportunity to demonstrate the value of comprehensive assessments. Identifying archetypes early on allowed us to streamline the process, and the borescope surveys gave insight into any underlying damp issues whilst providing clarity to current insulation conditions

Oliver Morgan, Retrofit Manager at Building Energy Experts

Key Observations from our Retrofit Assessors

  1. Top-floor flats achieved EPC C ratings, largely due to previously applied external wall insulation (EWI). 
  2. The properties were not connected to mains gas, so the flats rely on relatively efficient electric storage heaters.
  3. Borescope surveys showed evidence of filled cavity walls with no observable causes for damp problems.
  4. Generally the ventilation was not sufficient, with inadequate ventilation determined as the underlying cause of damp issues in certain flats.

The Results

Our comprehensive assessments provided actionable data that helped the project’s design team recommend targeted solutions. Our insights included:

Lessons Learned

The key lesson here is that ventilation is critical to prevent damp and mould, particularly in older buildings. Inadequate ventilation was found to be the main contributor to damp issues in several flats, highlighting the importance of airflow alongside insulation and airtightness in retrofit projects.

Strong collaboration between housing providers, contractors and specialists is critical for project success. In this case, effective collaboration with VOR, Wates, and Anchor was key to overcoming challenges and achieving the project’s goals. 

An integrated approach addressing all building performance aspects – ventilation, insulation, heating and air tightness – is essential for ensuring long-term benefits for occupants.

What’s Next?

This project has reinforced the value of detailed assessments and collaborative partnerships in delivering successful retrofits. If you’re managing a large-scale retrofit project, we can help you achieve compliance, improve energy efficiency, and ensure long-term success.

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