Healthy Homes
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluating the indoor environment, health, carbon emission, economic outcomes of retrofitting social housing properties to improve energy efficiency in a low-income multi-ethnic population: a quasi-experimental study with process evaluation
IRAS ID
347237
Contact name
Rosie McEchan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bradford Teaching Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
Housing quality is crucial for health, as uncomfortable homes can lead to issues like damp, mould, and indoor pollution, increasing stress and the risk of heart and lung problems. Retrofitting homes to make them more energy-efficient could reduce these health risks, lower energy bills, and help the environment by cutting carbon emissions. However, retrofitting may have unintended effects, such as reducing fresh air, and could worsen damp/mould and indoor pollution.
Working with a major social housing provider, this research aims to understand how retrofitting social housing in Bradford affects health, indoor environment quality, and value for money. We will measure and track indoor air quality, temperature, and humidity in 420 homes, comparing 210 homes before and after changes have been made (18-21 months in total) with 210 comparable homes that have not been retrofitted. We will collect residents' feedback on comfort, health, and energy use at three time points. In a smaller group we will measures mould and ventilation behaviours. We will also examine how building age, type, and resident behaviours impact carbon emissions to determine which homes should be prioritized for retrofitting. The analysis of routine health data from 6,500 residents over five years will assess any differences in mental, lung, and heart health between those living in retrofitted and non-retrofitted homes. We will compare the costs of retrofitting with potential savings for the NHS and the economy to assess its value for money. Finally, we will carry out interviews to gather feedback with some residents and retrofitting professionals to identify successes and challenges. The results will help inform government, housing providers, and developers, ensuring retrofitting benefits both health and the environment. We will involve residents as co-researchers, providing input at every stage of the project to ensure the research aligns with their needs.REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/YH/0081
Date of REC Opinion
16 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion