As the UK accelerates its path to net zero, retrofit and decarbonisation have moved to the forefront of the social housing agenda. For housing associations and local authorities, improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions are no longer optional—they’re essential. Not only do these efforts align with national carbon targets, but they also tackle fuel poverty and enhance tenant wellbeing.
This is where Cardo Group plays a pivotal role. By delivering tailored retrofit solutions across its national network and integrating the expertise of SERS, the business is driving a new standard in energy-efficient, future-ready homes.
Retrofit refers to the process of upgrading existing homes to improve energy performance and reduce environmental impact. For social housing, this involves enhancing insulation, ventilation, heating systems, and glazing while maintaining comfort and affordability.
Cardo Group takes a strategic and resident-focused approach to retrofit. Rather than offering isolated upgrades, the company incorporates retrofit into its wider Total Asset Management model—ensuring that improvements are aligned with planned maintenance, compliance, and long-term lifecycle planning.
Retrofit projects are delivered with:
In 2025, Cardo Group welcomed SERS into its family, significantly expanding its retrofit delivery capability. Known for its expertise in external wall insulation and energy-efficient upgrades, SERS brings decades of technical knowledge, installer experience, and funding insight.
The integration means that Cardo clients benefit from:
With SERS onboard, Cardo now offers a complete solution—from initial assessment and funding strategy to installation and ongoing performance tracking.
The UK government has committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. For the housing sector, this translates to a pressing need to decarbonise existing stock—particularly within the social housing sector, where homes are often older and less energy-efficient.
To support this goal, regulations are tightening:
Cardo Group helps housing providers navigate this complex regulatory environment through a combination of data-led assessments, compliance tracking, and project delivery expertise.
Decarbonisation isn’t just about targets—it’s about people. Cold, inefficient homes lead to fuel poverty, poor health outcomes, and tenant dissatisfaction. By retrofitting and decarbonising homes, Cardo Group improves quality of life while also meeting environmental obligations.
Key tenant benefits include:
Cardo places tenant engagement at the heart of every retrofit project, ensuring that residents understand what’s being done, how it affects them, and the benefits they can expect.
Cardo’s whole-house retrofit programmes are based on fabric-first principles and tailored to the unique needs of each property. These upgrades may include:
Each project begins with a whole-dwelling energy assessment, followed by detailed planning, stakeholder consultation, and delivery by qualified installers.
PAS 2035 outlines the standard for energy retrofit in the UK. Cardo ensures full compliance by:
Compliance is not a checkbox—it’s the backbone of Cardo’s delivery model.
Retrofit can be complex—especially when it comes to funding. Cardo assists clients in navigating funding streams, securing grants, and managing administrative requirements.
Services include:
Retrofit is not complete at handover. Cardo’s commitment continues with:
Unlike one-off retrofit contractors, Cardo delivers retrofit within the context of Total Asset Management. This means that upgrades are scheduled alongside void refurbishments, planned works, and compliance checks—maximising efficiency and minimising disruption.
This integrated delivery model results in:
Using asset management software, Cardo captures and analyses building data to prioritise retrofit works based on:
This data-led approach ensures the right homes receive the right interventions at the right time—maximising return on investment and resident impact.
Retrofit and decarbonisation are part of Cardo’s broader mission to improve lives and build resilient communities. Beyond the bricks and mortar, every project aims to deliver social value.
This includes:
Aligned with ISO 26000 Social Responsibility principles, Cardo’s retrofit programmes are designed to leave a positive legacy wherever they operate.
While specific case studies cannot be shared here due to content guidelines, Cardo Group’s projects consistently result in:
These outcomes are made possible by combining strong delivery processes with local knowledge and trusted supply chain partnerships.
When it comes to retrofitting social housing, experience and reliability matter. Cardo offers a complete solution—technical expertise, funding strategy, resident care, and lifecycle planning.
With the support of SERS and the backing of national frameworks, Cardo is equipped to:
This positions Cardo as more than a contractor—it’s a strategic partner in decarbonising Britain’s homes.
Cardo Group is ready to support your journey toward low-carbon, energy-efficient housing. Whether you’re seeking to meet EPC targets, reduce emissions, or unlock retrofit funding, Cardo provides the strategy, expertise, and delivery capability you need.
Visit cardogroup.co.uk to explore retrofit and decarbonisation services, or speak to a member of the team about planning your next housing upgrade project.