LivGreen is leading the transformation of UK homes into sustainable living spaces. As specialists in retrofitting, they recognize that social housing landlords are increasingly focused on tenants’ health, comfort, and environmental impact. Their partnership with VENTI, a trusted name in innovative ventilation solutions, aims to tackle these issues directly.
Airtight Homes Creating Health Risks in Maesteg Estate
The Hidden Cost of Energy Efficiency Upgrades (UK Part L Compliance Issues)
The project centred on Maesteg, a social housing estate in Wales, with over 30 properties needing retrofitting. Many homes had become overly airtight due to energy-efficient retrofitting solutions compliant with UK Part L Building Regulations, leading to problems like:
- Mould Growth
- Poor Indoor Air Quality
Traditional ventilation methods, such as intermittent extract fans and trickle vents, proved inadequate, causing discomfort and rising energy costs. Homes with mechanical ventilation systems can save up to 30% on heating costs, highlighting the need for modern solutions.
Tenants often worry about the health risks of poor air quality and the hidden costs of dampness and mould, especially in light of recent regulations emphasizing these issues.
50% Air Pollution Reduction & Tenant Comfort Priorities
LivGreen established clear goals for the project:
- Enhance Indoor Air Quality: Prevent mould and improve occupant health by reducing indoor air pollutants by over 50%.
- Energy Efficiency: Lower energy consumption and utility costs, crucial for budget-conscious tenants.
- Comfort Levels: Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round.
- Minimize Disruption: Ensure quick and minimally invasive installation processes.
VENTI’s MVHR Technology Partnership for Sustainable Social Housing
LivGreen’s client made a strategic investment in a tailored ventilation solution, utilising VENTI’s expertise in mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR). This partnership emphasized health, comfort, and sustainability for social housing residents.
The Process Involved:
- Thorough Stock Analysis: Comprehensive assessments of each property’s ventilation needs, ensuring tenant concerns were addressed.
- Design Development: Customizing ventilation systems to align with energy-saving goals, reflecting VENTI’s commitment to innovation.
- Installation: Implementing VENTI’s solutions with minimal disruption to tenants.
By demonstrating easy installation and immediate benefits like improved air quality and energy savings, VENTI showcased its value: a healthier home with long-term cost savings. Effective ventilation systems can reduce moisture-related issues, lowering the risk of mould growth by up to 80%.
Results
The project successfully retrofitted the properties in Maesteg, leading to:
- Enhanced indoor air quality
- Reduced energy consumption
- Improved comfort for occupants
LivGreen’s proactive approach, supported by VENTI’s innovative solutions, provided tenants with a long-term resolution to ventilation issues.
Social housing tenants who invest in their living conditions gain dignity and security. By choosing VENTI, landlords make a smart financial choice while investing in the well-being of their tenants and the community.
Expert Insight
Steven Wilson, Technical Director at LivGreen, stated,
“Ventilation isn’t just about circulating air; it’s about creating a healthier, more comfortable living environment. Our partnership with VENTI allowed us to exceed our clients’ expectations, providing tailored solutions that addressed their unique needs.”
Conclusion
This case study highlights the importance of innovative ventilation solutions in social housing retrofitting projects. By partnering with VENTI, landlords are not only enhancing their properties but also investing in a healthier, more sustainable future for their tenants and the wider community.