Summary
The energy efficiency industry has updated compliance regulations for installers under Government and Utility grant schemes, transitioning from PAS2030/2017 to PAS2035/2019 as of July 1, 2021. This change introduces a Retrofit Assessment and a “Condition and Ventilation Strategy Survey” to prevent damp and condensation caused by restricted ventilation. Everyday activities generate water vapor, and inadequate ventilation can lead to condensation buildup.
To combat this, new extractor fans may need to be installed in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms to ensure proper ventilation. Qualified electricians will install these fans, ensuring they meet necessary extraction rates: 60 liters per second in kitchens and 15 liters per second in bathrooms.
Additional ventilation may also be required in living spaces, identified during the ventilation survey, possibly including trickle vents or external wall vents. Internal doors may need an undercut for airflow. All ventilation requirements specified in the retrofit design by a qualified Retrofit Coordinator should be addressed before or alongside insulation installation. Funding may be available to assist with costs, and discussions about ventilation needs will occur after initial surveys.