Retrofit assessment
A retrofit assessment is the process of surveying, inspecting, assessing and recording the relevant characteristics of an existing dwelling ...in order to provide sufficient information for the preparation of a retrofit. This role is mentioned in PAS 2035, which is the British Standard for retrofitting dwellings, first published in 2019, and most recently in 2023, it outlines how retrofit projects should be managed and delivered.
Figures by the Trustmark from November 24, indicate that some 225k retrofit assessments have already been carried out in the UK. Following the PAS standard a piece of work regarding a standard for UK retrofit was started by RICS and published in their document 'Residential retrofit standard: RICS Professional Standard UK, as a 1st edition in March 2024, effective from 31 October 2024.
The BS 40104 Assessment of dwellings for retrofit, will effectively formalise and expand on this work, the new British Standard with effectively replace clauses 8.2-8.6 of the PAS 2035 document and will add clarity and context to other sections if so required. The current broad scope structure of the BS 40104 Assessment of dwellings for retrofit as developed by the CB/401 BSI Committee - Retrofitting Energy Efficiency Measures is as follows (for updates follow the BSI link above):
| Context - how the dwelling should be inspected and reported on |
|
| Condition - the assessment of the condition of the dwelling and defects including: |
|
| Occupancy - focussing on the two main facets of occupancy described in PAS 2035: |
|
| Ventilation - Key to healthy homes is a functional ventilation strategy, as such a comprehensive understanding of the dwellings existing ventilation system should recorded, this includes (see also Annex C of PAS 2035): |
|
| Energy Performance - The energy performance characteristics of the dwelling. |
|
| Significance - The architectural or historical context of a dwelling is key to the provision of a sensitive retrofit. Where a dwelling is, or forms part of, a protected dwelling (Listed, part of a conservation area or within a world heritage site for example) or traditional (defined as “constructed with solid brick or stone walls, or timber-framed walls with any infill”), then it should be treated in a specific manner as part of the retrofit assessment: |
|
| Reporting - encompassing the data above provided in a standardised format and may include: |
|
| Qualifications - |
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Alterations to existing buildings.
- Do the building regulations apply to works to existing buildings?
- Demolition.
- Material amendment.
- Material change of use.
- Minor material amendment.
- Non material amendment.
- Change of use class.
- Planning permission.
- Permitted development.
- Principal designer.
- Renovation v refurbishment v retrofit.
- Retrofit project roles.
- Types of works to existing buildings.
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.