“Everyone in the UK lives in healthy homes that are fit for the future.”

Retrofitting means improving existing homes so they waste less energy. This includes home improvements, like better insulation, new windows, and modern heating systems. Because the UK has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050, almost all 29 million homes will need this kind of work.

When done properly, retrofits can make a big difference to people’s lives:

• Warmer homes in winter, which reduces health risks linked to cold.
• Lower energy bills, because less heat escapes.
• Cleaner indoor air, especially if home ventilation is improved.
• Less exposure to outdoor pollution, thanks to better-sealed windows and walls.

These benefits are especially important for older adults, children, and people with long-term illnesses.

If upgrades focus on sealing homes without adding ventilation, problems can include:

• Trapped moisture, leading to damp and mould
• Build up of indoor air pollution from  cooking fumes, chemicals and cleaning products
• Worsening health due to a more polluted indoor environment

The INHABIT Hub’s role is to make sure the UK’s move to net zero homes also creates healthier places to live. It does this by generating new scientific evidence on the impacts of retrofitting in real homes, and turning this into practical advice for government and industry professionals.

***We are willing to support PhD and Fellowship applications – please get in touch if you wish to discuss***