This Information Paper provides an update on the process of refurbishing housing to make it suitable for modern living, with sustainability in mind. It includes useful tips plus links to numerous sources of information and websites. Many organisations are working towards refurbishing the UK’s housing stock, and these are referred to at relevant points.

 

Illustrations 10 colour photos

 

Pages: 16

 

Contents

 

Background
Policy and finance
-Whole-life value
-Refurbish or demolish?
-Priorities
-Planning for future phases
Planning and regulations
-Planning permission
-Building Regulations 2000 (England and Wales) - Approved Document L
-Energy Saving Trust
-Heritage buildings
-Testing
-Climate change (Rain. Flooding. Overheating. Cool roofs and green roofs)
Health and safety
-Fire safety
-Asbestos
-Lead
-Radon
Building fabric and design
-Walls
-Thermal bridging
-Windows and doors (Sash windows)
-Sound insulation
-Lifetime Homes
-Conservatories
-Bats and swifts
-Recycling and waste
Energy and services
-Airtightness and ventilation
-Central heating and controls
-Renewable energy systems
-Feed-in tariffs
-Micro combined heat and power
-Occupant behaviour
-Home security
-Digital access provision
-Maintenance and servicing
-Energy Efficiency Recommended Scheme
-Innovations
-LED lighting
Case studies
Tools
Publications
-General
-BRE Building Elements series
Useful websites
-Government departments and agencies
-Housing
-Building design, research and services
-Trade associations
-Accreditation and standards bodies