Retrofit Assessments

Retrofit Assessments Explained

Improving energy efficiency in a property isn’t just about adding insulation or upgrading heating systems — it’s about understanding the building as a whole.

A retrofit assessment provides a clear, evidence-based picture of how a property performs and forms the foundation for sensible, effective energy improvement plans. Whether you are a homeowner, landlord or housing provider, a professional assessment helps ensure upgrades are appropriate, safe and cost-effective.

I’m Dominic Bowkett, a building surveyor providing Retrofit Assessments across Kent, Sussex and South East London. My approach focuses on practical, realistic advice — particularly for older and traditionally constructed buildings where a careful, informed approach is essential.

What is a Retrofit Assessment?

A Retrofit Assessment is a detailed evaluation of a property carried out as part of the PAS 2035 framework, the recognised standard for domestic retrofit in the UK.

The assessment gathers information about:
The condition and construction of the building
Current energy performance
Heating and ventilation systems
Occupancy and how the property is used
Existing insulation and energy measures
Potential risks associated with upgrades

This information helps create a clear understanding of how improvements can be made without causing unintended problems.

Why Retrofit Assessments are important

Energy efficiency upgrades are becoming increasingly common, driven by rising energy costs, environmental targets and changing rental regulations.

However, poorly planned upgrades can lead to issues such as:
Damp and condensation
Reduced ventilation and indoor air quality
Damage to traditional materials
Underperforming improvements

A retrofit assessment helps ensure that proposed measures are suitable for the building and work together as part of a whole-property approach.

Common retrofit mistakes in older buildings

Older and traditionally constructed properties require a different approach to energy upgrades. Unfortunately, many problems arise when modern solutions are applied without fully understanding the building.

Common mistakes include:

Installing impermeable insulation or finishes
Traditional buildings are often designed to breathe. Blocking moisture movement can lead to damp and long-term damage.

Focusing on single upgrades rather than the whole house
Replacing one element without considering ventilation, moisture and heating balance can create new problems.

Overlooking ventilation
Improving airtightness without adequate ventilation increases the risk of condensation and poor indoor air quality.

Using generic solutions designed for modern buildings
Older properties behave differently and need measures tailored to their construction.

A proper retrofit assessment helps identify these risks early, giving you confidence that improvements will work for the building rather than against it.

Retrofit and older or traditional buildings

Many properties throughout Kent, Sussex and South East London were built long before modern construction standards.

Traditional buildings often rely on breathable materials and natural moisture movement. Applying modern solutions without understanding this can cause long-term damage.

As a building surveyor with specialist knowledge of older and traditional buildings, I understand:
Solid wall construction
Lime-based materials and breathable structures
Common risks when retrofitting period properties
How to balance efficiency with building conservation

This helps ensure retrofit decisions improve performance while protecting the fabric of the building.

What happens during a Retrofit Assessment?

A retrofit assessment typically includes:
A full survey of the property
Measurement and recording of construction details
Assessment of insulation and thermal performance
Review of heating, hot water and ventilation systems
Analysis of occupancy patterns
Identification of risks and constraints

The assessment creates a detailed profile of the property, which can then be used by Retrofit Coordinators and designers to plan suitable improvements.

Planned EPC changes for rental properties by 2030

Government policy is moving towards higher efficiency standards in the private rented sector.

While final legislation is still subject to confirmation, the current direction of travel indicates:
Rental properties are expected to require a minimum EPC rating of C by 2030.

For many landlords, this will mean planning upgrades over the coming years. Obtaining an EPC now helps you understand your starting point and identify practical improvements early, rather than facing last-minute pressure.

Who needs a Retrofit Assessment?

Retrofit assessments are often required for:
Properties accessing government funding or grants
Social housing and improvement programmes
Landlords planning energy upgrades
Homeowners seeking structured advice before renovation
Older properties where careful planning is essential

Even where not mandatory, the assessment provides valuable clarity and helps avoid costly mistakes.

Benefits of a Retrofit Assessment

Clear understanding of building performance
Whole-house planning rather than isolated upgrades
Reduced risk of damp or unintended damage
Better long-term energy efficiency results
Confidence when planning future works

Areas covered

EPC assessments are available across:
Kent
East and West Sussex
South East London

Including Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Maidstone, Bromley, Bexley, Lewisham and surrounding areas.

Why choose me?

Qualified building surveyor
Specialist expertise in older and traditional buildings
Clear, practical reporting
Careful consideration of building fabric and risks
Reliable, professional service

My focus is always on realistic, sensible improvements that suit the property — not generic one-size-fits-all solutions.

Arrange a Retrofit Assessment

If you’re planning energy improvements or need a Retrofit Assessment as part of a larger project, I’m happy to help.
Get in touch to discuss your property or arrange an assessment.