Existing housing

Britain has the oldest housing stock in the developed world with 8.5 million properties over 60 years old. At current demolition rates, the average house will have to last for 1,000 years before it is replaced. It is therefore vital that we make improving the environmental performance of our housing stock a priority.

Energy efficiency has a vital role in reducing fuel consumption and making warmth affordable. Houses undergoing major refurbishment now are unlikely to be refurbished again until 2050. Current refurbishment work has a major part to play in meeting the UK's long term emission reduction targets.

The Energy Saving Trust housing programme has produced a range of practical guidance that can help building professionals incorporate energy efficient standards that go beyond the minimum standards of building regulations. To help you, free technical guidance and advice is available through our guides, dedicated helpline and website.

Adopting the Energy Saving Trust recommendations in refurbishment where this is technically, functionally and economically feasible can result in dramatically improved levels of energy efficiency being achieved.

For further information on how energy efficient measures can be achieved, download relevant publications from the link on the right.

You can also search our enitre range of publications online by clicking here.

Contact our technical helpline on 0845 120 7799 for advice on technical issues.