For those operating within the government-backed retrofit industry, big changes are expected to take place in the near future with regards to the regulatory standards of retrofit installation. The PAS 2035 Retrofit Standards are part of the Each Home Counts scheme and aim to create a retrofit quality mark that will invoke change, reducing the rate of installation failures in domestic buildings.

Retrofitting insulation is an important energy-saving measure, but the right method of installation and awareness of potential risks is extremely important. While there have undoubtedly been cases where retrofit insulation has failed, this can be reduced with thorough training and on-site inspection.

As an external wall insulation system manufacturer, EWI Pro encourage the proper installation of our systems with our comprehensive training course. The course aims to improve the quality of installation in the retrofit market.

We incentivise installers with our manufacturer-backed warranties and lead distribution to install our systems as specified by us, and as directed by our training course. Furthermore, our regular site-inspections, comprehensive technical support and close working relationship with installers gives us the confidence in the success of each EWI Pro approved installation.

What does the PAS 2035 regulation entail?

The new PAS 2035 standards serve to reinforce our ethos of high quality. Here are some of the standards that retrofit installations will be advised to meet under the PAS 2035 standards:

• Ensuring that the property has adequate ventilation, and to upgrade it where necessary.
• Installers must be registered with an approved trade body.
• A whole-home approach must be taken to every project – this ensures that the system is designed to fit the requirements of each individual home, avoiding the one-size-fits-all solutions. This takes into account: heritage issues and statutory approvals, thermal bridging, solar control, moisture management, waterproofing, air-tightness, ventilation.
• Risk assessments and energy audits must be carried out before installation.
• Monitoring and evaluation throughout the entire installation process with a range of designated professionals.
• Installers will have to ensure that they receive customer feedback on each installation.

How will PAS 2035 affect the retrofit industry?

We hope that PAS 2035 will strengthen the standards of quality that all retrofit projects should meet, protecting consumers against the potentially damaging effects of a failed installation – both financially and structurally. Giving installers the chance to hone their skills and increase their credibility would also be a positive outcome, especially if an increase in business means more homes are properly insulated.