Energy efficiency in social housing: guidance for landlords - revised 2020

6 Reasonable Measures

6.1 The EESSH methodology assumes that most social housing can be brought up to the 2020 target by installing reasonable measures. Table 6 sets out a revised list of reasonable measures. It is based on data and comments provided by members of the Review Group, and also from the analysis of measures made in the research carried out in connection with the development of an energy efficiency standard for the private sector.^[21]

6.2 The cost and benefit figures are indicative estimates, provided as a guide to help identify and compare potential measures for installation. Actual costs and benefits will vary. Landlords should also take account of the notes that follow the table, which identify additional factors that might affect the costs or benefits of individual measures.

6.3 Landlords are not required to install every item listed as a reasonable measure. Rather, landlords are expected to take them into consideration, and evaluate whether they are appropriate for their stock, as part of the process of identifying what measures should be used to meet EESSH.

6.4 In addition, to act as a safeguard, the current environmental impact rating of any house should not decrease as new measures are installed.

Table 6. List of reasonable measures

Note A. This estimate is for a condensing boiler replacing an existing electric heating system. The cost will be lower (c. £2,500-£3,000) for replacing an older existing gas boiler, but the impact on SAP will be also lower (est. 4 points).

Note B. The impact of this measure will vary with the level of existing insulation. There are diminishing returns from increasing insulation thickness.

Note C. The cost of windows is significantly higher if there are restrictions on design, e.g. sash-and-case required in conservation areas.

Note D. Under-floor insulation is disruptive and may be impractical unless it can be combined with other work scheduled during voids. Insulation will require a minimum existing cavity depth. Additional work may also be needed to alter skirting boards, doors, electrical wiring and plumbing, and this will increase the cost of the measure significantly and may make it unreasonable.

Note E. The benefits are for moving from zero to 100% energy efficiency lighting. Landlords may also consider LED lighting, which may incur increased initial costs but can result in greater long-term efficiencies.

Note F. Cost will vary with the size and number of panels needed. Benefits are reduced (to around 4 points) if replacing older existing storage panels.

Note G. Solid wall insulation is an expensive measure and landlords should carefully consider whether it is cost effective in individual cases.

Note H. Cavity wall and water tank insulation are current SHQS measures, so are likely to be in place as standard.

Note I. The overall benefits are for a complete replacement of an existing system with a new heating system, including ancillary measures such as heating controls and thermostatic valves.