Deciding whether to retrofit or rebuild starts with a professional condition survey assessing damp, structural movement, and overall building health. Planning restrictions, conservation rules, neighbour sensitivities, access rights, and party wall agreements influence feasibility, costs, and timelines.

When Retrofitting Makes Sense
Retrofitting is ideal for buildings with sound structures. Upgrading insulation, windows, and services improves comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term performance while preserving character features. Retrofits reduce embodied carbon, may avoid full planning approval, and allow phased works to minimize disruption. Hidden costs in older buildings must be included in budgets.

When Rebuilding Delivers Better Value
Rebuilding suits extensively defective structures or where modern fire, accessibility, and energy standards are challenging. New builds offer layout flexibility, predictable costs, and faster programmes. Despite relocation, rebuilding delivers superior long-term performance, lower running costs, and higher future value. Assess structural condition, environmental impact, incentives, disruption, and lifecycle cost before deciding.