Every month in our Retrofit Academy Forums, we select a topic that we think is central to retrofit professionals and delve deep into the issues. Not only did one of our latest Forums introduce the first details on our long-awaited Understanding Non-Domestic Retrofit course, but the course authors themselves also shared and discussed the importance of non-domestic retrofit with an overview of the structure and content.
Course editor and co-author, Martin Callachan, set the scene by sharing the scale and urgency of the non-domestic retrofit challenge. Dr Peter Rickaby (Technical Author of PAS2038) followed with an introduction of the 6 learning modules, expanding on what non-domestic retrofit is about and the strategies, approaches and processes involved. Chris Twinn, co-author of the course, then covered a variety of non-domestic retrofit case studies.
Why is Non-Domestic Retrofit So Vital?
Our schools, offices, hospitals, retail, commercial, industrial and other non-domestic properties contribute to 23% of the UK’s carbon emissions, making them a critical focus for retrofit to improve energy efficiency and lower the UK’s carbon footprint.Â
Understanding non-domestic retrofit and the BSI PAS 2038 standard is therefore essential for anyone working in the sector.
The scale and urgency of the challenge ahead is significant. There are a total of 2.25 million non-domestic buildings which require retrofit in the UK. This equates to 1,658 buildings per week, or 237 per day if we are going to meet the UK Government’s Net Zero Target by 2050.
PAS 2038: The Standard for High-Quality Non-Domestic Retrofit
To ensure consistent, effective retrofit solutions, the British Standards Institution (BSI) introduced PAS 2038 – the official guidance for non-domestic retrofit projects.
This standard provides a structured approach that helps professionals:
- Assess buildings correctly before retrofit begins
- Implement tailored solutions that improve long-term energy efficiency
- Ensure compliance with the UK’s net-zero strategy
- Deliver high-quality work that meets best-practice standards
With PAS 2038, professionals can confidently plan, manage, and evaluate retrofit projects in commercial and public sector buildings.
Opportunities for Retrofit Professionals in the Non-Domestic Sector
The retrofit industry is growing fast, with thousands of skilled professionals needed to meet demand. PAS 2038 has set a high standard, and employers are now actively seeking trained specialists.
Who Can Benefit from Non-Domestic Retrofit Training?
This sector offers career advancement opportunities for:
- Surveyors and energy assessors looking to specialise in non-domestic buildings
- Project managers overseeing large-scale retrofit projects
- Engineers, architects, and consultants who need expertise in PAS 2038 compliance
- Facilities and property managers responsible for improving building performance
- Sustainability professionals committed to reducing carbon emissions
Why Now is the Time to Upskill
With 2.25 million buildings needing retrofit, the demand for skilled professionals will continue to rise sharply. By gaining PAS 2038 knowledge and practical training, professionals can:
✔ Increase their employability in the sustainability sector
✔ Take on leadership roles in retrofit projects
✔ Deliver high-quality, compliant retrofit solutions
✔ Contribute to the UK’s net-zero transition
Become a Retrofit Academy Member and Gain Exclusive Access to Industry Forums and More!
The Retrofit Academy is leading the race to the top in the retrofit sector, equipping professionals and organisations with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed. By becoming a Retrofit Academy Member, you’ll be joining a community of best practice for the retrofit industry, discovering lifelong learning, software, networking, and recognition to drive quality at scale.
As part of our thriving community, you’ll gain:
✔ Exclusive access to monthly forums featuring expert speakers and industry leaders
✔ Lifelong learning opportunities, including CPD, masterclasses, and online training
✔ A dedicated support network of retrofit professionals and organisations
✔ The latest software and tools to help drive quality at scale
✔ Recognition as a Retrofit Academy Professional or Corporate Member
All members gain access to the Retrofit Academy Hub, a one-stop shop for networking, learning, and best practice resources. Whether you’re an individual professional looking to upskill or an organisation committed to driving quality in retrofit, The Retrofit Academy Membership is the key to staying ahead.
