A retrofit survey is the essential first step in upgrading a property to be warmer, more efficient and future ready. In practical terms, it is a structured assessment of the building’s current fabric, services and how the space is occupied. A qualified retrofit assessor examines insulation levels, heating and hot water systems, ventilation routes, moisture risks and visible defects such as damp or mould. The output is a clear, prioritised plan that shows what to improve, how to stage the work and how to avoid unintended consequences.
What does a retrofit survey include?
A robust retrofit survey typically covers three linked areas. First, an energy performance evaluation that benchmarks the property’s current efficiency and identifies where heat is being lost. Second, a condition assessment that looks at structure, building fabric and environmental issues such as damp or mould. Third, an occupancy assessment that records how the building is actually used, for example heating patterns, ventilation habits and room usage. For older or listed buildings, the survey also factors in heritage constraints so that any improvements protect the character of the property. Together, these elements give a whole house view that is more useful than a basic one off energy check.
Why it matters for outcomes and compliance
The retrofit survey is not just a box ticking exercise. It ensures that proposed measures work together, that they are technically compatible with the building and that they follow recognised standards such as PAS 2035 for domestic retrofit in the UK. A survey informed plan reduces the risk of condensation, thermal bridging or ventilation imbalances, all of which can undermine performance or comfort. It can also support funding applications, for example ECO4, by providing the required evidence that the chosen measures are suitable for the home in question.
What you can expect on the day
On site, the assessor will inspect lofts, walls, floors and services where accessible. Photographs and measurements are taken to validate the current construction. Basic diagnostic tools may be used, and where appropriate specialist techniques can be commissioned, such as thermography to visualise heat loss, air tightness testing to quantify leakage and laser scanning for accurate geometry. Occupants are asked about comfort, condensation, ventilation habits and heating controls. The process is non invasive in most cases, although access panels may be opened where safe to do so. Findings are compiled into a written report with recommendations ranked by impact, cost and practicality.
What a good retrofit survey report delivers
A professional report should do more than list upgrades. It should map out a sequence that makes technical and financial sense. For example, improve fabric first where feasible, then right size low carbon heating such as heat pumps, then optimise controls, ventilation and generation, including solar and battery options where appropriate. It should flag any damp or mould risks and set out how proposed measures will address them. It should clearly distinguish quick wins from deeper interventions and explain dependencies, for instance why improving airtightness must be paired with appropriate ventilation to maintain indoor air quality.
How Domna approaches a retrofit survey
At Domna, our retrofit surveys are designed to be decision ready for property owners. We start with a whole house mindset, align with PAS 2035 processes and translate findings into a practical roadmap that reflects your goals, budget and timeframes. Because we also design and deliver upgrades, our recommendations are grounded in installable solutions. Where diagnostics add value, we bring in thermography, air tightness testing and laser scanning to reduce uncertainty. Our service suite spans retrofit assessment, coordination and design, through to delivery of insulation, heat pumps, solar and battery systems, along with energy modelling and EPCs. This joined up capability helps clients move from insight to action with confidence.
Benefits you can quantify
A well executed retrofit survey helps reduce energy bills by targeting the most effective measures for your property type. It improves comfort through better temperature stability and air quality. It lowers carbon emissions, supports compliance and can enhance asset value by demonstrating a credible path to higher performance. The survey also reduces project risk by identifying constraints early, for example moisture issues behind proposed internal wall insulation or ventilation needs following air sealing. With a clear phasing plan, you can schedule works around occupancy and funding opportunities, rather than making isolated changes that are hard to integrate later.
When should you commission a retrofit survey?
Commission a retrofit survey if you are planning any major works, considering a low carbon heating system, addressing persistent damp or mould, or preparing a portfolio wide investment plan. It is also valuable before purchasing an older property where the long term efficiency strategy is part of your acquisition case. For housing providers and landlords, surveys can be scaled as stock condition and energy assessments to inform programme level decisions. Domna supports one off homes and portfolios with consistent methodology and reporting.
What happens after the survey
You will receive a report that prioritises measures, outlines expected impacts and sets the compliance context. From there, Domna can provide retrofit design, coordination and delivery. Typical next steps include fabric upgrades such as loft, internal or external wall and cavity insulation, followed by heat pump design and installation, controls optimisation, ventilation improvements and the addition of solar panels with battery storage where suitable. Throughout, we aim to deliver warmer homes, lower bills and measurable carbon reductions while protecting the building’s health.
A retrofit survey gives you the evidence and plan you need to invest wisely. It looks at the whole house, aligns with UK standards and turns insights into a staged roadmap that delivers comfort, compliance and long term value. If you want a decision ready assessment tailored to your property, Domna can help from first survey through to successful installation.