TAMESIDE & SADDLEWORTH RETROFIT ASSESSMENTS
Resources
On this page you will find some resources on - Retrofit basics, Grants and Funding, and specific information for Landlords
Retrofit means improving an existing home so it is structurally sound, uses less energy, feels more comfortable and is cheaper to heat. It’s about looking at the whole house, not just one quick fix.
Here are some of the main building blocks:
• Insulation – keeping heat in your walls, roof and floors so your home stays warm for longer.
• Airtightness & ventilation – blocking draughts while making sure you still get fresh, healthy air.
• Windows & doors – reducing heat loss through glazing and frames.
• Heating & hot water – choosing efficient systems (like heat pumps) and controls that suit your home.
• Controls & behaviour – using timers, thermostats and simple habits to get the best from your home.
A good retrofit plan is tailored to your property and links directly to your EPC rating. A professional retrofit assessment helps you understand what to do first, what it might cost and what benefits you can expect.
See this publication from Trustmark for more details:
https://cms.trustmark.org.uk/media/kdynhrq2/2025-retrofit-journey-brochure-a5-digital.pdf
Help with the cost of retrofit changes often comes from national schemes, local councils and energy suppliers. These schemes change regularly, so always check the latest details.
Useful starting points:
• GOV.UK – search for “help with energy bills” and “home energy grants” for current national schemes.
• Your local council – look for “energy efficiency” or “home improvement grants” on their website.
• Ofgem – information on schemes run by energy suppliers (for example the Energy Company Obligation, ECO).
• Energy Saving Trust – independent advice on grants, loans and support across the UK.
An up-to-date retrofit assessment can help you match your home and circumstances to the schemes you may be eligible for.
If you let out a property in England or Wales, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are already part of your legal responsibilities.
Key points to be aware of:
• Minimum standards – in most cases, a property must reach at least EPC band E before it can be legally let, unless a valid exemption is registered.
• Exemptions – some properties can be exempt, but this must be recorded on the official PRS Exemptions Register.
• Future changes – the UK government has consulted on raising minimum standards (for example to band C) and tightening timescales, although final rules and dates may change.
• Local enforcement – councils can issue financial penalties if a property is let without meeting EPC rules.
Because policy is evolving, it’s important to:
• Check the latest guidance on GOV.UK by searching “minimum energy efficiency standards for landlords”.
• Keep an eye on consultations and announcements about EPC changes.
• Use a detailed retrofit assessment to plan improvements that protect your investment, support your tenants’ comfort and reduce running costs.