Exterior Wall Insulation – an Integral Part of the UK Empty Homes Programme

Bringing Empty Homes into a Good Use

The Empty Homes programme developed by the Homes and Communities Agency is designed to provide capital funding for the long-term empty properties which have raised many concerns over the years due to wasted resources which could be put into a good use. The programme provides £100 million funding under the Affordable Homes programme, which is to be implemented in the period from 2012-2015. The basic concept is to transform long-term empty properties (i.e. properties that have been empty for a period over six months) into liveable homes through some simple yet effective refurbishment measures, including fitting new kitchens and bathrooms, heating system upgrades, electrical rewiring up to probably the most important external wall insulation. The aim is to turn the empty properties into homes that will meet the Descent Homes Standard, in accordance to which social housing should be properly repaired, have adequate kitchens and bathrooms, be healthy and safe and reasonably insulated. Well, external solid wall insulation is one of the most efficient measures that could not only provide adequate protection for the walls and the building structure, but also upgrade the energy efficiency of the household and lower its carbon footprint. Thus, this should be regarded as a general word of advice and recommendation for all properties in the UK and not only social housing and empty properties that are financed through the program.

One example of implementation of the Empty Homes programme is the reparation of empty properties in Kettering, which included eight houses which have been empty for over 18 months, whereas, four properties have been properly repaired, upgraded and let out to new residents. The implemented refurbishment measures also included the external wall insulation, so that they are now in accordance with the Descent Homes standard. The project has been financed with £152,000 of grant funding, intended for refurbishment of eight empty homes. Both John Conway, head of housing at Kettering Borough Council and the local authority's portfolio holder for housing Steve Bellamy indicated that they are pleased that the programme can bring the empty properties into good use and provide new homes for local families.

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