In2Air Project: Retrofit Health Outcomes Evidence Model

How do retrofits affect the air we breathe? The In2Air study is testing this by monitoring 90 homes before and after energy-efficiency works, tracking indoor air quality (IAQ), energy bills, and resident health. The goal: evidence-based retrofit that balances carbon savings, comfort, and healthier lives. 

Key insights from the episode: 

• Retrofitting without ventilation can unintentionally worsen IAQ, fuelling damp and mould. 

• Real-home monitoring shows wide variation between households — behaviour matters as much as the building. 

• Housing Providers don’t need more dashboards; they need a minimum dataset that drives action. 

• Residents engage best with clear, plain guidance and follow-ups, not just a handover pack. 

• A repeatable data protocol is being developed so others can adopt the approach. 

Useful links: 

• In2Air project overview 

Practical steps for housing providers 

1. Build IAQ and ventilation checks into retrofit briefs. 

2. Collect a minimum dataset: PM, CO₂, temperature, humidity, energy, and resident surveys. 

3. Replace generic packs with personalised handovers and 6–8 week follow-ups. 

4. Offer simple, accessible guidance for different resident needs. 

Host: Jenny Danson, Co-founder and Chief Executive, Healthy Homes Hub 
Guests: Dr Kay Rogage, Assistant Professor, Computer & Information Sciences & Dr Dani Baguley, Research Fellow, Geography & Environmental Sciences, both from Northumbria University with Colin White, Principal Housing Delivery Officer from Newcastle City Council