"As cost is a major concern, homeowners should consider starting small with improvements such as energy-efficient lighting or smart heating controls"
- Ben Gallizzi - Uswitch
Despite government funding of £13.2 billion, most UK homeowners are reluctant to retrofit their properties due to high upfront costs and uncertainty about savings.
Retrofitting involves upgrading a home with features or technologies that improve energy efficiency, reduce bills, and support sustainability. It is particularly important for older properties where managing ventilation, moisture, and heat loss is crucial. Improvements can range from small measures such as LED lighting or smart heating controls to larger interventions like heat pumps, insulation, or solar panels.
Four in five homes that will still be occupied in 2050 are already built, meaning most will need retrofitting to meet low-carbon heating and energy efficiency targets for the UK to reach net zero. The Government’s Warm Homes Plan (WHP), backed by £13.2 billion, aims to help households save up to £600 annually through heat pumps and energy efficiency measures.
Financial barriers remain the main obstacle
Research from Uswitch shows that financial concerns are the largest barrier to retrofitting. A survey of 1,000 homeowners found that while 55% have already made energy-saving improvements, only 33% are actively considering retrofitting their properties. Over half (56%) understand how retrofitting can reduce energy bills, but upfront costs are a major concern.
61% of homeowners say the upfront cost is too high
65% see it as a major barrier
59% would retrofit if financial support were more accessible
48% feel retrofitting is disruptive or complex
37% would be encouraged if others in their community were doing the same
More than two-thirds (67%) stated they would retrofit if savings on energy bills were clearly visible. Homeowners aged 25-35 are particularly motivated, with 71% saying financial support would influence their decision, compared to just 50% of those over 55.
Younger homeowners embrace green improvements
Younger homeowners are more receptive to energy-saving upgrades. Around 69% of 25-34-year-olds already have energy-saving products in their homes. They are most interested in solar panels (57%), smart heating controls (48%), and heat pumps (41%). In contrast, those over 55 favour insulation (52%) and double or triple glazing (50%), and 20% say they would not consider retrofitting, compared with only 5% of 25-34 year olds.
Retrofits can increase property appeal
Over half (55%) of homeowners believe retrofitting would make their property more appealing to future buyers. Research found that 57% would pay more for a home with renewable or low-carbon energy sources, with 25% willing to spend an extra £15,000–£25,000, and 11% prepared to pay more than £45,000.
Potential savings are significant
Retrofitting can save homeowners between £70 and over £2,000 annually, depending on the measures installed. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) guide homeowners on potential improvements, but fewer than half of homes in England currently achieve EPC band C or above.
Local support is lacking
Almost two in five (39%) homeowners feel their local council does not provide enough guidance on retrofitting. Dissatisfaction is highest in Edinburgh (48%), Belfast (47%), Nottingham (46%), Leeds (45%), and Glasgow (43%). Nearly half (49%) of respondents stated that retrofitting is vital to reduce carbon emissions and help the UK reach net zero.
Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com, explained the advantages of retrofitting:
Lower energy bills: “Retrofitting your home has a huge saving potential, including on your energy bills. Homes that retain heat better and have more efficient heating systems will require less energy to keep your property warm.”
Better for the planet: “Energy-efficient improvements help reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption in existing buildings by enhancing insulation and switching to renewable energy sources.”
Supporting net-zero goals: “Making homes more energy-efficient plays a key role in helping the UK reach net zero. With 25% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions coming from the built environment, retrofitting offers a sustainable alternative to redevelopment and is essential to meet climate targets.”
Start small: “As cost is a major concern, homeowners should consider starting small with improvements such as energy-efficient lighting or smart heating controls.”
Grants available: “Almost two-thirds (60%) of homeowners stated they do not know enough about financial support or grants. A range of UK energy grants exists to help homes heat themselves efficiently. Visit the Uswitch website to see which grants you may be eligible for.”
