PAS 2035 Retrofit
Retrofit assessments are carried out within rented properties on behalf of partnered organisations, such as housing providers, energy‑efficiency programme coordinators and reputable energy installation companies.
This page has been created to help tenants understand what a retrofit assessment involves and to make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible. It explains what will happen during the visit, how long the assessment typically takes, and how you can prepare your home in advance.
Why This Matters
A retrofit assessment is the first step toward improving the comfort, efficiency, and running costs of your home. The information gathered during the assessment helps decide which energy‑efficiency improvements may be suitable for the property. These could include measures such as upgraded insulation, ventilation improvements, heating system upgrades, or, in some cases, renewable technologies like solar panels.
What to Expect During the Visit
Upon arrival, the process will be explained prior to carrying out the assessment. Please note, this is not a structural survey and does not involve diagnosing or resolving repairs or maintenance concerns. Any such concerns should be directed to your housing provider. The retrofit assessment typically includes:
A full walkthrough of the property.
Each room in the property will be assessed, including the kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, and living areas. After an initial pass, a more detailed inspection will take place, which will require returning to certain rooms two or three times to gather all necessary information. Measurements, photographs, and notes will be taken regarding the building’s construction and condition.
Accessing all areas
To complete the assessment, unrestricted access is required to all parts of the property, including:
• Each external elevation.
• The loft space (telescopic ladders are provided).
• Cupboards and built‑in storage.
• The heating system/ boiler and associated parts.
• Any adjoined outbuildings and/or garages that may be present.
If any areas are blocked or inaccessible, the assessment may need to be rearranged.
Measuring windows and internal doors
All windows, trickle vents and internal doors will be measured, opened and photographed. Please ensure that:
• Where possible, keys are available for any locked windows.
• Furniture is not blocking access.
• Curtains or blinds can be moved easily.
• Internal doors can be fully closed.
Potential invasive measures carried out
Most clients require confirmation of the presence and condition of any existing cavity wall insulation. In the case of cavity constructed properties, inspection points will be formed externally at low level using a 15mm drill bit, allowing insertion of a digital borescope to capture images at varying locations.
Unless the property is rendered, inspection points are formed through the mortar course. At the end of the inspection, all holes are carefully filled and sealed using a moisture‑resistant mastic or filler, selected to blend as closely as possible with the existing mortar or render finish.
How long it takes
The assessment usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Larger or more complex properties may take slightly longer.
To help the assessment run efficiently and ensure all information is gathered accurately, please allow the assessor to focus while they are working. If you have any questions or concerns, you’re welcome to raise them before the assessment begins or once it has finished. This avoids interruptions during the inspection and helps the assessor complete the process thoroughly.
How You Can Prepare
A few simple steps help the visit go smoothly:
• Make sure all rooms, cupboards, and the loft hatch are accessible
• Move any items that block windows, doors, or heating systems
• Keep pets and young children safely out of the way
• Ensure someone aged 18 or over is present for the duration of the visit
No special cleaning or preparation is required beyond ensuring access.