Optimised Retrofit Programme for a Welsh Housing Association

This case study highlights the exceptional contributions of Ben Wheeler in his role as the lead Retrofit Assessor on the Optimised Retrofit Programme (ORP) for a Welsh Housing Association. Ben’s expert involvement was pivotal in improving the energy efficiency of 20 properties in West Wales, ensuring compliance with decarbonisation goals, and enhancing the quality of residents living conditions. Through his technical expertise and collaborative approach, Ben demonstrated outstanding leadership in delivering comprehensive and sustainable retrofit solutions.

Project Overview

The ORP, funded by the Welsh Government, aimed to tackle energy inefficiency across a range of housing stock while meeting legislative decarbonisation targets. The properties, which included semi-detached bungalows and room-in-roof configurations, posed a variety of challenges due to differing construction standards and building regulatory requirements from different periods of development.

Ben was responsible for conducting detailed retrofit assessments for each property, including diagnosis of building defects, evaluation of energy performance, and measurement of key building elements. His findings informed the retrofit design process, ensuring that each property could be enhanced in line with the Welsh Housing Quality Standards (WHQS), Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), and PAS 2035 principles.

Key Responsibilities

Ben’s role required a thorough, multi-disciplinary approach, which combined skills in building pathology, inspection, measurement, and client management. Key elements of his work included:

Building Pathology:

Through visual inspections, Ben identified defects such as dampness, condensation, thermal bridging, and poor insulation. Using diagnostic tools like thermal imaging cameras and damp meters, he detected issues like moisture buildup in poorly installed cavity wall insulation (CWI), which he recommended for removal before proceeding with external wall insulation (EWI) installations.

Inspection and Diagnosis: Ben meticulously documented the condition of each property’s structural elements, identifying risks such as deteriorated windows and poorly constructed extensions. This process was critical for ensuring resident safety and prioritising health and safety, including addressing any immediate hazards.

Measurement:

Accurate measurement was vital for ensuring compliance with PAS 2035 standards and for the accurate specification of retrofit measures. Ben used laser devices and mobile software to capture detailed measurements of floor plans, wall depths, room sizes, and window placements.

Collaboration:

Ben worked closely with contractors, retrofit designers, and residents, ensuring clear communication and access arrangements. His approach to resident engagement was particularly important, as he proactively addressed concerns about the intrusiveness of surveys and potential disruption from works.