Evaluating homes in times of crisis: the value of pre- and post-retrofit monitoring for indoor environment, thermal performance and health

Extended abstract 4-268-26

During a period marked by overlapping climate, energy, health, and cost‑of‑living crises, understanding the value of pre‑ and post‑retrofit monitoring has become increasingly important. This paper examines how residents and building performance evaluators interpret and use empirical data collected before and after energy retrofit activities. While some residents are primarily motivated by climate concerns, others face more immediate risks arising from high energy costs, inadequate heating systems, damp, mould, and poor indoor air quality. Retrofit has the potential to support climate mitigation and adaptation while improving indoor environmental conditions; however, these benefits are not guaranteed and may be undermined if interventions are poorly specified or executed.

Drawing on two UK case studies, the paper evaluates the perceived usefulness of data on thermal performance, airtightness and indoor environment. The first case study explores a cohousing community undergoing thermal imaging and blower door testing to inform decisions on heating decarbonisation and fabric upgrades. The second focuses on low‑income owner‑occupied homes in ex‑coal mining areas receiving retrofit measures such as insulation, heat pumps, and solar panels, with some households continuing to rely on coal heating. Monitoring included particulate matter, thermal conditions, and air leakage, alongside qualitative interviews and observations.

Findings indicate that indoor environment data can prompt changes to ventilation practices, while thermal imaging proves effective at revealing previously unknown fabric issues and guiding retrofit choices. Across both studies, residents expressed stronger engagement with visual and experiential forms of data collection than with numerical readings alone. The paper recommends embedding meaningful pre‑ and post‑evaluation processes within publicly funded retrofit schemes and allocating time and resources for resident engagement, including tailored communication of monitoring results and their implications for retrofit decisions.

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