As the UK moves closer to its ambitious Net Zero targets, the social housing sector finds itself at the forefront of the green revolution. At CPH Retrofit, we believe that decarbonising our housing stock isn't just a technical requirement: it is a moral imperative to ensure that every tenant has access to a warm, efficient, and affordable home.
The successful completion of Year One for the Warm Homes Wave 3 (formerly the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund – SHDF) rollout marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Saffron Housing Trust. Having secured substantial funding to upgrade their portfolio, Saffron required a partner who could translate high-level energy targets into tangible, onsite results. We are proud to share how our team has delivered exactly that, setting a new gold standard for large-scale domestic retrofit.
Not only have we delivered the initial 153 quality installations, we have delivered an additional 112 retrofits, that's a total of 265 homes warmer and more efficient for the expected capital cost of 153 improvements.
Through our comprehensive measure modelling and best value model we have now secured significant additional funding for our year two delivery.
The Challenge: Navigating the Warm Homes Fund Wave 3
The Warm Homes Fund represents a monumental opportunity for social housing providers. With Saffron Housing Trust securing £7 million in funding, the pressure was on to ensure that Year One delivery met stringent government KPIs while maintaining the highest levels of quality.
Retrofitting social housing at scale is never a "cookie-cutter" exercise. Every property presents unique structural challenges, and every tenant has unique needs. For Saffron, the goal was clear: improve the energy performance of their homes to at least an EPC Band C, reduce carbon emissions, and most importantly, mitigate fuel poverty for their residents.
Our role at CPH Retrofit was to provide the technical backbone for this mission, serving as the lead Retrofit Coordinators and Assessors to ensure the project remained compliant, efficient, and on schedule.
PAS 2035: More Than Just a Compliance Check
In the world of domestic retrofit, PAS 2035 is the framework that ensures quality. However, we know that many providers view compliance as a hurdle rather than an asset. At CPH Retrofit, we take a different approach. We see PAS 2035 as the blueprint for success.
During Year One of the Saffron rollout, our Retrofit Coordination team worked tirelessly to ensure that every measure: from External Wall Insulation (EWI) to Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs): was designed and installed according to the whole-house principle. By conducting rigorous Retrofit Assessments, we ensured that no measure was installed in isolation.
Our comprehensive approach included:
- Detailed Dwelling Assessments: Capturing accurate data on the existing state of each property.
- Risk Management: Identifying potential issues like ventilation inadequacy or structural damp before work began.
- Retrofit Design Oversight: Ensuring that the chosen measures would actually deliver the predicted energy savings.
By prioritizing PAS 2035 compliance from day one, we provided Saffron Housing Trust with the peace of mind that their investment was protected and that the risk of "retrofit failure" was eliminated.
The CPH Advantage: A "Former Installer" Perspective
One of the key reasons Saffron Housing Trust partnered with us for this ambitious project is our unique background. We aren't just consultants who sit behind desks; our leadership team comes from a practical, "boots on the ground" installer background.
This experience proved invaluable during the Year One rollout. When challenges arose onsite: as they inevitably do in large-scale construction: we didn't just point out the problem; we provided the solution. Whether it was navigating complex detailing for EWI or optimizing the placement of smart heating controls, our technical expertise allowed us to speak the same language as the contractors on the frontline.
This practical insight allows us to bridge the gap between theoretical energy models and actual onsite reality. We understand the nuances of Air Pressure Testing and thermal bridging in a way that purely academic consultants often miss. This resulted in fewer delays, higher quality installations, and a smoother experience for the Saffron delivery team.
Collaborative Success: Bridging the Gap Between Client and Contractor
Success in Wave 3 is built on collaboration. Throughout the first year, CPH Retrofit acted as the essential link between Saffron Housing Trust and the various installation partners involved in the project.
We maintained a constant presence, providing technical monitoring and real-time feedback. Our reporting structures were designed to give Saffron total transparency over the progress of the works. By managing the data flow and ensuring that all evidence for funding claims was meticulously organized, we helped Saffron meet their financial and administrative obligations to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
Our professional yet energetic approach helped foster a culture of excellence across the entire supply chain. We believe that when everyone is held to a higher standard, the tenants are the ultimate winners.
Real Impact: Tenant Outcomes and Housing Stock Improvement
While we take pride in our technical delivery and compliance records, the true measure of success for the Warm Homes Wave 3 Year One rollout is the impact on people’s lives.
Saffron Housing Trust’s portfolio has seen a dramatic improvement in energy efficiency. For the tenants, this translates to:
- Reduced Energy Bills: High-performance insulation and modern heating systems mean less money spent on gas and electricity.
- Improved Comfort: Eliminating drafts and cold spots makes homes more liveable year-round.
- Healthier Environments: Proper ventilation strategies, integrated into the retrofit process, reduce the risk of mould and dampness.
For Saffron as a landlord, the benefits are equally significant. Their housing stock is now more resilient, has a higher asset value, and is well on its way to meeting future legislative requirements. We are proud to have played a central role in future-proofing these homes.
Looking Ahead: The Journey to Year Two and Beyond
The completion of Year One is just the beginning. The momentum we have built with Saffron Housing Trust provides a powerful foundation for the remainder of the Wave 3 program. We have refined our processes, strengthened our partnerships, and proven that high-volume, high-quality retrofit is not only possible but sustainable.
As we move into the next phase of the rollout, CPH Retrofit remains dedicated to being the "one-stop shop" for energy efficiency consulting. From Domestic EPCs to complex Retrofit Coordination, we are ready to tackle the challenges of Year Two with the same passion and precision.
Why Choose CPH Retrofit for Your Social Housing Projects?
If you are a social housing provider looking to navigate the complexities of the Warm Homes Fund or any other decarbonisation initiative, look no further. We offer a level of expertise and reliability that is unmatched in the industry.
Our commitment to the "gold standard" of retrofit means we don't cut corners. We provide:
- Expert PAS 2035 Coordination: Total compliance and risk mitigation.
- Practical Technical Monitoring: Installer-led insights that prevent onsite errors.
- Streamlined Project Delivery: Efficient data management and reporting for funding assurance.
- A Consultative Relationship: We work as an extension of your team, not just as a third-party contractor.
The success of the Saffron Housing Trust Year One rollout is a testament to what can be achieved when professional expertise meets practical experience. We are ready to bring that same success to your portfolio.
Contact Us Today
Are you ready to transform your housing stock and provide your tenants with the warm homes they deserve? Let’s discuss how we can support your next project.
Explore our services or learn more about us to see why CPH Retrofit is the trusted partner for social housing decarbonisation across the UK.
Together, let’s build a warmer, greener future.
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