A resident first approach to whole-house retrofit for the Hyde Group

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As the Hyde Group’s strategic delivery partner for whole-house retrofit, WPS and Liberty have provided funding support and fully compliant PAS 2035 services, alongside resident centric delivery. The programme is helping Hyde meet the Government’s target for all social homes to achieve EPC Band C by 2030.

Almost 200 homes in Chichester have benefitted from a combination of energy efficiency upgrades, including air-source heat pumps, cavity wall and loft insulation, solar PV systems, ventilation improvements, energy monitoring technology and new electric storage heaters where appropriate. The £4.3m contract was funded through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund: Wave 2.1.

Putting residents first

At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to ensuring residents live in safe, high-quality homes shaped around their real needs. Adopting a resident first engagement model, led by our Resident Liaison Officers (RLOs), the process began with introductory letters and detailed household profiles to understand individual circumstances and property‑specific considerations. Residents were guided through the proposed measures, why they had been selected, and the benefits they would see delivered in terms of energy savings, improved comfort and reduced damp and mould. Regular communication supported the coordination of technical surveys, and once designs were approved, RLOs scheduled installation dates.

To minimise disruption, we issued clear advance schedules, sequenced works to avoid prolonged disturbance, supplied temporary heaters during service interruptions, and enforced strict cleanliness and dust control standards. Continuous feedback loops enabled issues to be addressed swiftly throughout installation. After works were completed, residents received an aftercare visit, including satisfaction surveys and tailored guidance materials to help them use their new systems effectively.

Better-performing homes for better everyday living

Residents are now benefiting from homes that are warmer and more affordable to heat, with fabric upgrades, renewables and air‑source heat pumps reducing energy use and improving thermal performance. Enhanced ventilation and insulation have also led to healthier living environments with significantly reduced damp and mould.

An innovative feature of the project was the installation of passive meters, enabling Hyde to monitor and optimise solar energy performance and ensure assets remain climate resilient in line with its Strategic Plan 2030.

Driving local impact

The project has strengtheed local employment by using local labour to strengthen the regional supply chain. As of 2026, over £200,000 has been invested in local business and £2 million invested in small and medium sized enterprises. Environmental standards were prioritised throughout delivery, with 99 percent of waste diverted from landfill. Close collaboration, open communication and transparent reporting helped maintain strong working relationships between our teams and Hyde.

Putting residents first has guided this project from day one. By listening to residents and tailoring our approach, we’ve delivered upgrades that make homes warmer, healthier and more affordable to heat.”

Jamie Joyce

Project Manager – WPS

We’re working hard to improve the energy efficiency of homes, so they’re comfortable all year round and reduce energy use, saving customers money and making homes affordable to live in. Speaking to customers from the very start was key to the success of this project, helping ensure energy-efficiency measures are appropriate for the residents’ homes and lifestyles while also reducing energy bills.”

Tom Symes

Sustainability Manager – Hyde Group