Published: 20/11/2024 By Patrick Diskin- Barr
Meet Patrick, our newly qualified Retrofit Assessor. Committed to contributing to the UK’s drive towards energy-efficient homes, he explains how he can help property owners improve their homes' efficiency.My journey to becoming a Retrofit Assessor
After qualifying as an energy advisor in 2021, I have been keen to contribute to the UK's drive towards more energy-efficient homes. I am pleased to announce that, with Symonds & Sampson, I have now qualified as a Retrofit Assessor. This qualification, combined with my building surveying expertise, has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to improve the energy efficiency and performance of the UK housing stock.
What is a Retrofit Assessor?
A Retrofit Assessor is a professional trained to conduct comprehensive assessments of existing homes to determine the most appropriate energy efficiency and performance improvements. Playing a vital role in the process of upgrading older buildings to modern energy standards.
This qualification aligns with PAS 2035, a standard introduced in 2019 following the Each Home Counts Review. The review identified significant issues in the delivery of energy efficiency improvements. PAS 2035 aims to ensure that retrofit projects are carried out to the highest standards, avoiding problems with the viability of measures, workmanship, and issues relating to damp, mould, and condensation.
What is included in an Assessment?
The retrofit assessment is comprehensive, typically taking up to three hours. It can be used as a stand-alone service or as part of a larger collaboration including Coordination, Design, and Evaluation roles. The assessment is the initial stage of the process and includes:
- A consultation with the homeowner regarding their current usage and goals for their property
- Consideration of short-term investments or long-term plans for a 'forever home'
- A holistic evaluation of the dwelling, taking into account factors such as:
- The property's age and construction
- Area restrictions relating to developments and investment (e.g., flooding, radon, orientation, AONB or Conservation Area status)
- Creation of a detailed plan and drawing of the building
- Insulation assessment (location, type, and thickness)
- Window evaluation (type, size, and efficiency)
- Property condition survey
- Utilities survey, costs, and usage assessment
- Ventilation survey
- Occupancy heating pattern review
Whether you have recently purchased an older property and are considering improvements or have lived in your home for years and want to enhance its performance, we can assist you. Our services take a practical approach to align with the government's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
It's worth noting that grant funding may be available to support this process, subject to your property and personal circumstances meeting the qualifying factors.
I am excited to be part of this growing industry and to contribute to making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient, helping you optimise your property in a way that works for you. If you're considering upgrading your home or would like to learn more about how a Retrofit Assessment could benefit you, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Contact our Wimborne Office on 01202 639400, and click here to see the extensive range of services offered by our dedicated Building Survey & Design experts.
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