Social landlords across the UK are under increasing pressure to improve the energy efficiency of older homes, particularly as government targets push for properties to achieve EPC band C or higher. Yet, despite the urgent need for upgrades, many landlords struggle with hard-to-treat properties, resident hesitancy, and financial constraints, making large-scale retrofit efforts complex.
With a significant portion of social housing built before modern energy efficiency standards, finding cost-effective, scalable solutions that deliver real improvements without major disruption remains a challenge. One emerging approach is the use of smart building technologies that help reduce heat loss while ensuring homes remain warm and energy efficient.
One company developing solutions in this space is AirEx, whose smart air brick Floorvent system is gaining attention as a low-cost, resident-friendly alternative to more disruptive energy efficiency measures. Designed specifically for social housing, the technology allows landlords to improve thermal performance in hard-to-treat homes while ensuring proper airflow.
Another common challenge is resident reluctance. Many tenants are hesitant about retrofit measures due to concerns over disruption and inconvenience. Solutions that are unobtrusive, easy to install, and offer immediate comfort and cost savings tend to receive better engagement, making it easier for landlords to implement upgrades at scale.
Funding constraints further complicate retrofit efforts, but government-backed schemes such as the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund are helping ease the financial burden. This funding supports affordable, high-impact technologies like those from AirEx, allowing landlords to make improvements without impacting budgets.
Richard Kemp-Harper, Chief Commercial Officer at AirEx, explains:
“Social landlords face significant challenges in meeting energy efficiency targets while balancing costs and tenant needs. Solutions such as our Floorvent reduce energy demand, improve comfort, and require minimal disruption—making it easier to roll out large-scale improvements across housing stock.”
For social landlords looking to explore practical retrofit solutions, Futurebuild on 4-6 March 2025 will showcase the latest innovations in energy efficiency. Visitors can meet the team from AirEx at Stand P30 to learn more about smart retrofit technologies and available funding opportunities.
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