INCA Case Study: Barnet Homes Retrofit Project

The Barnet Homes Retrofit Project stands as a remarkable example of how collaboration, innovation and careful delivery can transform a community’s future. Led by Quinn London in close partnership with Barnet Homes, John Rowan & Partners, Green Gnomes, Pristine Glazing and EWI Pro, this ambitious project aimed to improve the energy efficiency of at least 150 homes in the borough of Barnet.

The main objective of this project is to make substantial, long-lasting improvements to the thermal performance of these properties. To achieve this, a range of measures were implemented, including External Wall Insulation (EWI), the replacement of windows and doors, loft insulation, and enhanced ventilation. Each intervention was carefully designed to cut energy consumption, lower utility bills, and create a more comfortable, healthy living environment for the residents.

From the outset, the goals were clear. The first was energy efficiency — reducing energy use and utility bills through proper insulating and draught-proofing. The result is a dramatic reduction in heat losses, keeping homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while cutting carbon emissions and conserving resources. The second key aim was comfort, addressing persistent issues of damp and cold by improving the thermal envelope of the buildings.

Equally important were the sustainability and health benefits of the project. By reducing carbon emissions and improving air tightness, the project directly contributes to Barnet’s climate goals and helps tackle climate change. At the same time, enhanced ventilation has improved indoor air quality, reducing health risks related to poor air circulation and damp.

A unique and valuable aspect of the project has been the strong emphasis on resident engagement. An onsite Resident Liaison Officer (RLO) team was available to provide support, answer questions and produce helpful written and digital materials. This close communication kept the community informed, reassured, and involved in the process — strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of collaboration and shared success.

The use of EWI Pro products, which have a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), underscores the project’s forward-thinking approach to materials and environmental responsibility. Furthermore, gas meters were relocated to allow for better air tightness and reduced thermal bridges — a key consideration to meeting code compliance and improving the overall performance of the properties.

The benefits for the community have been dramatic. Residents report lower energy bills, greater warmth and stability in their homes, and improved health and well-being. The project has fostered a newfound sense of community, where people come together in a shared mission to make their homes more comfortable, efficient and sustainable.

Ultimately, the Barnet Homes Retrofit Project is a powerful demonstration of how well-planned and carefully delivered retrofits can transform not just buildings, but the lives of the people who live in them.