Whole House Retrofit

Retrofit is the process of improving the energy efficiency of an existing building. Retrofit measures range from insulation to energy efficient heating systems and solar panels. Whole House Retrofit takes a "fabric first" approach to improving home energy efficiency. This approach applies measures in a sequence that makes the most sense. The first step considers a home's insulation and ventilation. The next step considers energy efficient heating. It wouldn't make sense to install energy efficient heating into an uninsulated house! Ventilation is also an important part of "fabric" to consider, to avoid damp and mould.

Having a Retrofit Assessor visit your home is the best way to get started. They can assess the current state of your property and develop a Retrofit Plan. Then a Retrofit Coordinator can carry out the phased retrofit plan. In this way you can improve the energy efficiency of your home, one step at a time.

Free basic advice

Want to know what may be possible for your home and the estimated costs? Use our free online energy saving plan builder tool. With the platform you can explore various retrofit measures for your home. It is not a substitute for expert advice, but it will support you in taking the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable home. The tool will also help you make your home cheaper to run and while reducing your carbon footprint.

Understanding retrofit

TrustMark is the only Government-endorsed Quality Scheme for work done at your home. They have a useful webpage with more information about Retrofit and short video: understanding retrofit (opens new window). You can also look at the TrustMark guide to retrofit (opens new window) for further details.

Finding the right professionals

The best place to find professional advice and installers is in TrustMark's directory (opens new window). For rooftop solar panels, the MCS accredited installers (opens new window) directory is the place to go. MCS provides quality assurance that registered installers of solar panels use best practice. For installers of insulation, check with the National Insulation Association (NIA) (opens new window). Using installers registered with these schemes ensures installations meet high industry standards. The schemes will also have their own complaints procedures.

Retrofit and planning permissions

You may need to contact the council for planning advice for some retrofit measures. Living within or without the South Downs National Park may also vary your required planning needs. If you are still unsure, you can contact the council through the following links:

• As a general householder you will need to submit a Do I need planning permission? form.
• For a listed building and advice on listed building consent, please submit a Do I need listed building consent? form.
• For more information on planning permission, visit Request pre-application advice and guidance. 

Retrofit for listed buildings and older homes in conservation areas

If you live in a listed building or in a conservation area, the construction and aesthetic character can be important. Here are some links for advice and guidance on retrofitting in these situations:

• Advice on Adapting Historic Building for Energy and Carbon Efficiency (opens new window)
• Historic England guidance on Retrofit and Energy Efficiency in Historic Buildings (opens new window)