Sustain Heritage was established by Thomas Thurlow in 2025.
Historic buildings have long been a passion of mine. I worked in various roles connected to building conservation for the past 20 years, from plaster work conservation to surveying and hold a MSc in Historic Building Conservation from the University of Bath.
I am also concerned a
Sustain Heritage was established by Thomas Thurlow in 2025.
Historic buildings have long been a passion of mine. I worked in various roles connected to building conservation for the past 20 years, from plaster work conservation to surveying and hold a MSc in Historic Building Conservation from the University of Bath.
I am also concerned about the impact of climate change and believe strongly in sustainable development. With 8 years experience as a local authority conservation officer I am well placed to advise on the current listed building legislation and consent process. In addition, I have completed the NOCN Level 3 award in Energy Efficiency Measures for older and Traditional Buildings am accredited by Elmhurst Energy to issue EPC Certificates, and I am qualified to provide Retrofit Assessments in accordance with PAS 2035.
It is estimated that 25% of the UKs building stock was constructed before 1919 but it is thought that as many as 35% of UK buildings are traditionally constructed (of solid wall). If we are to meet our legally binding climate requirements we need to do all we can to make them more energy efficient. Doing this without harming the histor
It is estimated that 25% of the UKs building stock was constructed before 1919 but it is thought that as many as 35% of UK buildings are traditionally constructed (of solid wall). If we are to meet our legally binding climate requirements we need to do all we can to make them more energy efficient. Doing this without harming the historic significance of these buildings or without causing issues such as damp and condensation can have huge complexity. All historic buildings, even listed ones, are capable of being adapted to make them more energy efficient. This is where Sustain Heritage can help. Replacing your traditional timber windows with uPVC does not have to be the first step
Understanding how the whole building is preforming is vital if a energy improvement scheme is going to be successful . Its no good putting in double glazing if you have an inefficient boiler or a hole in your roof.
A condition survey of the building will look at all areas of energy loss, from leaking windows, to hot water tanks and even cat-flaps. The survey will use thermographic survey equipment to pinpoint areas of heat loss. This piece of work, together with an assessment of the significant elements of the building are the foundation of good retrofit advice in older properties. Sustain Heritage offers this service to help give you the best advice.
EPCs (Energy Performance Certificate's) are required to sell or let properties. They give an an indication of how energy efficient the building is and what works might improve its performance. Recent research has shown the EPC process can significantly underestimate the thermal performance of traditionally constructed and historic buildings resulting in a poorer rating. Furthermore, EPC recommendations take a fabric first approach instead of assessing the building's performance as a whole, and do not consider the way the building is used or its historic significance. As such, ratings may lead to inappropriate recommendations which could harm the character of the building or cause physical damage.
Sustain Heritage can provide EPCs, but can also explain what they mean along with bespoke advice set against the heritage values of your property.
Rental properties in England are legally required to have an EPC of band E or above unless an exemption is provided. If you are a landlord Sustain Heritage can provide vital advice on bring your rental properties up to standard without the risk of damaging the building or spending money on measures that won't help.
Understanding what the right retrofit measures to apply to a historic buildings is complex. The wrong choice can be expensive and damaging to the building. Sustain Heritage will give clear and helpful advice on how to make cost effective improvements that will save you money but not damage the building. Sustain Heritage is accredited under Elmhurst and Trustmark Approved to act as a Retrofit Assessor for your project.
In the event that recommended retrofit works require listed building consents or planning permission, Sustain Heritage can both advise and assist with this process. We won't make recommendations that would likely be refused by a Planning or Conservation Officer, saving you time, hassle and money.
