Non Traditional Properties to Benefit From External Wall Insulation Over Next 4 Years

Over 1000 non traditional properties across Wrexham are to benefit from the installation of External Wall Insulation over the next four years. 

The External Insulation Project is part of Wrexham Housing’s extensive works programme to ensure that all its properties achieve the Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS) by the 2020 deadline.

Wrexham owns some 1,647 Non Traditional Properties of 14 different types, constructed after the war and spread over 26 locations around the Borough. To date some 545 properties have benefited from having EWI (External Wall Insulation) installed.

It is estimated that it will take four years to complete the upgrading of the non traditional and solid wall housing stock in Wrexham, with 190 properties completed in year one. The programme will continue on working on an estimated 200 properties a year until the programme has been completed.

Speaking about the decision to install EWI in non traditional properties in Wrexham, the report notes: “Following procurement, Michael Dyson Associates Ltd were commissioned to establish the structural condition of our Non Traditional Properties, likely future life, repair requirements and cost options to maintain a 30 year assured life.

“The Dyson’s survey and report found the Council’s Non Traditional Properties to be, by and large, in a reasonable structural condition and recommended (with a few exceptions) a programme of moderate repairs, most prominent of which is the installation of external wall insulation (EWI). A report was taken to Executive Board and they recommended that the Dyson’s report be followed and works recommence on achieving WHQS to the non-traditional properties.”

Throughout 2015/16 works has largely been carried out on bungalows, particularly those with poor insulation. The reasons noted for this decision include the fact the properties are spread out across the borough enabling various wards to benefit, that that works were considered relatively straightforward to complete and the poorest energy performing properties are completed in year one.

Back in May 2015 it was announced that 190 properties in Cefn Mawr were set to benefit from the scheme. The process includes installing a 100mm layer of insulation is applied to the outside walls and elevations, making the homes far more energy efficient and cheaper to heat.

During the installation of EWI consultation with tenants on the work being done to the properties will take place. The report also notes that ‘wherever appropriate we will set up open days where officers can carry out presentations and answer questions’. A recent event at Cefn Mawr regarding the upgrading of properties was also noted to be well attended by both tenants and private home owners.

The report will be presented before the Homes and Environment Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday 8th July at 1pm.