With all properties being funded under SHDF Wave 2.1, GDS were appointed by Axis Europe Ltd and Wates to deliver the services on behalf of London and Quadrant Housing.
We initially worked with the client to identify their retrofit priorities in terms of energy saving measures to be installed, whilst also taking into consideration the potential disruption to residents, housing stock and the client’s asset management strategy.
It was important to ensure that each property was looked at as a whole, to ensure that both fabric first was given its due priority whilst also looking at necessary repair and asset management works that would be undertaken in conjunction. Retrofit measures included replacement of windows, door and upgrade of loft insulation including suitable eaves ventilation. Works also included IWI, EWI, CWI, as well as heating and ventilation upgrades.
Working closely with the client RLOs and site managers, GDS carried out all the Retrofit Assessments using both the Elmhurst Energy and ECMK software. In conjunction with this, GDS arranged for all pre works air pressure testing to be undertaken, including the production of CAD floor plans and CWI surveys where required.
The data from the assessments was modelled in full SAP, to provide accurate energy modelling detail on what measures should be implemented alongside the client’s list of priority measures, to achieve a minimum EPC band ‘C’ rating and space heat demand of at least 90kWh/m2.yr. This information was then drafted into an Improvement Option Evaluation and Medium Term Improvement Plan for each property for client approval.
GDS prepared full retrofit design packages for each property with archetype properties receiving bespoke design stage surveys and the remaining properties being designed from desktop information available; therefore saving repeated surveys being undertaken.
Covering retrofit coordination of all elements, our team worked with the contractor and client to provide up to date, accurate information as the project progressed, through our own internal tracking documents. We also fully managed the building and planning application statutory processes to obtain the necessary consents prior to site works commencing.
All retrofit coordination works were completed by GDS’s dedicated and trained retrofit coordinators, ensuring that processes were in line with PAS2035:2019 requirements.
GDS are currently working closely with the site installation team and providing ad hoc technical advice and site inspections to review works in progress and completed works. As construction works draw to a close on works under Wave 2.1 funding, Retrofit Evaluation will be carried out and all properties where measures have been installed will be lodged via Trustmark to achieve their funding.
