INDUSTRY NEWS
BSRIA RESEARCH REVEALS COMPLEX REALITY IN RETROFIT CHALLENGE
W
hile concerns over funding for retrofi t projects are widespread, with half (51%) of construction professionals citing cost
as a major barrier, new research from BSRIA reveals that budgets are only one part of a much more complex challenge. BSRIA’s fi ndings highlight a more nuanced
reality in which energy-saving measures are being frequently overlooked – creating an equally signifi cant, yet more addressable, hurdle in tackling the retrofi t challenge. This reality is underscored by the fact that the
Offi ce for Budget Responsibility (OBR) recently estimated that the cost of retrofi tting the UK’s housing stock could be up to £803 billion. However, despite this vast fi gure, only 3% of the allocated Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund has been spent so far, casting doubt on whether funding alone is truly the main bottleneck when it comes to progress. Many point to knowledge gaps and regulatory
complexities as major obstacles. In fact, BSRIA’s research indicates that 42% of construction professionals believe that complex regulatory compliance is slowing progress. Yet, while the introduction of new standards like PAS 2035 have raised the standards for retrofi t projects, its requirements align with the core purpose of retrofi tting, representing an opportunity rather than a barrier. This raises questions around whether the
industry is taking the correct approach, with diff erent views being held across the sector. While a quarter of professionals cite the integration of new technologies as a key blocker to the retrofi t challenge, a similar number (26%) of professionals advocate for a fabric-fi rst approach as the initial step in retrofi t projects. However, given that the Energy Saving Trust reports that around 75% of a building’s heat energy can be lost through its fabric – with walls alone accounting for approximately 30% of losses, roofs for 25%, fl oors for 10% and windows for 18%- using strategies that put fabric fi rst should be a fundamental consideration. This suggests large numbers of construction
professionals could be overlooking the substantial gains that can be made by fi rst improving the thermal envelope of the building. Tom Garrigan, executive director at BSRIA,
commented: “Net Zero will come at a cost, that’s understood. The real challenge is ensuring that investment delivers maximum value by making informed, evidence-based decisions. Some decarbonisation steps can be taken at no cost, and while Net Zero is the target, small positive changes in how we operate and control our buildings can begin to pave the way. When implementing any fabric performance measures, adopting a whole building approach ensures all elements of the building’s building fabric work together, providing improved comfort, lower energy bills and a healthier living environment.
“Before investing in renewable energy systems, buildings should fi rst be made ‘low carbon technology ready’, as part of a staged approach on their decarbonisation journey.” Despite these challenges, the sector remains optimistic. BSRIA’s research found that 76% of respondents believe retrofi t solutions will deliver long-term performance, lasting over 20 years. Mr Garrigan continued: “Retrofi tting buildings
across the UK is crucial to achieving the government’s Net Zero targets, and it’s clear that the industry recognises the value of this. While budgets do pose challenges, accelerating retrofi t at scale requires us to close the knowledge gap, understand and demonstrate compliance, and focus on fundamental energy effi ciency principles.”
LOGIC4TRAINING WARNS AGAINST ONLINE TRAINING SHORTCUTS
W
ith more young people choosing a career in the trades over university, Logic4training urges aspiring building
services engineers to prioritise quality over speed when choosing a path into the sector. New research carried out by the training
provider reveals growing demand for online training, with yearly search volume rising from 42,860 in 2022 to 61,550 in 2024, an increase of 44% in just two years. However, a survey of tradespeople reveals significant challenges associated with e-learning. A lack of hands-on experience is cited as the biggest obstacle by 54% of respondents, followed by cost concerns
comes at the cost of quality and credibility: “Far too many aspiring tradespeople are
(46%) and limited job placement opportunities (42%).
Mark Krull from Logic4training says that while online training may appear convenient, it often
investing their money into courses that promise the earth but end in disappointment. Young people exploring alternatives to university may be attracted by the lure of remote learning and a quick qualification. However, when a course starts front-loaded with online training and little or no tutor support, the chances of success are pretty low.” “Apprenticeships are a tried and tested way into the sector, allowing apprentices to ‘earn while they learn’, and avoid the debt associated with university. For college leavers and anyone looking for a quicker way to switch careers, quality apprenticeship alternatives do exist - but they must include rigorous practical components, industry-recognised qualifications and realistic timelines for skill development.”
6 August 2025
DOWNLOAD THE HVR APP NOW
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104 |
Page 105 |
Page 106 |
Page 107 |
Page 108 |
Page 109 |
Page 110 |
Page 111 |
Page 112 |
Page 113 |
Page 114 |
Page 115 |
Page 116 |
Page 117 |
Page 118 |
Page 119 |
Page 120 |
Page 121 |
Page 122 |
Page 123 |
Page 124 |
Page 125 |
Page 126 |
Page 127 |
Page 128 |
Page 129 |
Page 130 |
Page 131 |
Page 132 |
Page 133 |
Page 134 |
Page 135 |
Page 136
