What if fabric came fifth, not first?
08/07/2025
What is the right sequence to maximise retrofit investment?
In this episode of #MakingHousingBetter, Jenny Danson, Chief Executive Officer at Healthy Homes Hub, is joined by Nigel Banks, Technical Director for Zero Bills and Low Carbon Homes at @Octopus Energy. Together, they explore why it's time to challenge the default 'fabric first' retrofit approach.
The discussion covers:
A new five-step hierarchy: why heat pumps, smart tariffs, and solar often deliver more value than deep retrofit
Why current policy and funding are already shifting towards Fabric Fifth
Risks from poorly executed fabric works — and how to avoid them
What theCCCuk’s latest carbon budget says about the future of solid wall insulation
Why technology and controls are critical for healthier, more affordable homes
This episode isn’t about ditching insulation — it’s about sequencing smarter, spending better, and delivering real outcomes for tenants.
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