PAS 2038 Retrofit

Compliant, Evidence-Based Retrofit for Non-Domestic Buildings

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PAS 2038 Retrofit Projects that Make an Impact

As the UK accelerates its transition to net zero, the need for high-quality, measurable retrofit in non-domestic buildings has never been greater. PAS 2038 sets the standard for how retrofit projects should be assessed, designed, delivered, and reviewed, ensuring consistency, accountability, and long-term performance.

Arthian supports public sector organisations in delivering PAS 2038-compliant retrofit projects across a wide range of building types. From initial assessment through to post-installation verification, we provide the technical expertise, project structure, and sector insight needed to deliver retrofit that works.

What Is PAS 2038?

PAS 2038:2021 is the British Standard for the retrofit of non-domestic buildings. It provides a structured, whole-building approach to improving energy performance, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring retrofit measures are appropriate, effective, and future-proof.

PAS 2038 applies to complex nondomestic buildings with an area greater than 1000m2 such as:

Offices and civic buildings
Schools, colleges, and universities
Hospitals and healthcare facilities
Libraries, museums, and heritage sites
Leisure centres and community buildings

It is increasingly required methodology for publicly funded retrofit projects and is aligned with wider government policy on building decarbonisation.

Our Services:

Our PAS 2038 Retrofit services include:

Retrofit Assessment

Retrofit Strategy Development

Design and Specification

Installation Support

Post-Installation Review

Retrofit Assessment

We begin with a detailed assessment of the building’s current condition, energy performance, and operational context. This forms the foundation for a compliant and effective retrofit strategy, tailored to the building’s unique characteristics and constraints.

This includes:

Site surveys and data collection to understand fabric, systems, and occupancy
Energy use analysis to identify inefficiencies and baseline performance
Identification of constraints and opportunities to guide design and delivery

Retrofit Strategy Development

We develop a tailored retrofit strategy aligned with PAS 2038 principles, ensuring a whole-building approach that balances performance, practicality, and long-term impact. The strategy supports compliance while maximising energy savings and carbon reduction.

This includes:

Whole-building performance modelling to guide design decisions
Fabric-first and low-carbon technology options to improve efficiency
Phased implementation planning to suit operational and budgetary needs

Design and Specification

We provide detailed design and specification services to RIBA Stage 4, ensuring that retrofit measures are technically sound, compliant, and ready for procurement. Our designs support smooth delivery and long-term performance.

This includes:

Technical specifications for materials, systems, and installation methods
Integration of retrofit measures with existing building fabric and services
Documentation to support contractor procurement and quality assurance

Installation Support

We support contractor engagement, quality assurance, and compliance monitoring throughout the installation process. ensuring that retrofit works are delivered to standard and in line with PAS 2030 requirements.

This includes:

Liaising with contractors to support clear delivery and coordination
Monitoring installation quality and adherence to specifications
Ensuring compliance with PAS 2030 standards and documentation requirements

Post-Installation Review

We carry out post-occupancy evaluation and performance verification to ensure that retrofit measures are delivering the intended outcomes. This helps confirm energy savings, identify any issues, and inform future improvements.

This includes:

Monitoring building performance against design expectations
Gathering feedback from occupants and users
Verifying energy and carbon savings through data analysis

Retrofit Assessment

Site surveys and data collection to understand fabric, systems, and occupancy
Energy use analysis to identify inefficiencies and baseline performance
Identification of constraints and opportunities to guide design and delivery

Retrofit Strategy Development

Whole-building performance modelling to guide design decisions
Fabric-first and low-carbon technology options to improve efficiency
Phased implementation planning to suit operational and budgetary needs

Design and Specification

Technical specifications for materials, systems, and installation methods
Integration of retrofit measures with existing building fabric and services
Documentation to support contractor procurement and quality assurance

Installation Support

Liaising with contractors to support clear delivery and coordination
Monitoring installation quality and adherence to specifications
Ensuring compliance with PAS 2030 standards and documentation requirements

Post-Installation Review

Monitoring building performance against design expectations
Gathering feedback from occupants and users
Verifying energy and carbon savings through data analysis

Why Choose Arthian's Energy team?

Integration

Fully integrated with geotechnical, hydrological, and ecological disciplines.

Our Experience

National experience with regional insight and regulatory familiarity.

Our Understanding

Deep understanding of planning, infrastructure, and environmental interfaces.

Results Driven

Commitment to technical rigour, clear communication, and long-term outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PAS 2038 mandatory for public sector retrofit projects?

While not yet legally mandated, PAS 2038 is increasingly required by funding bodies and is considered best practice for non-domestic retrofit.

What’s the difference between PAS 2035 and PAS 2038?

PAS 2035 applies to domestic buildings, while PAS 2038 is specifically for non-domestic (commercial and public) buildings which tend to require more complex solutions.

Can you support PAS 2038 projects funded schemes?

Yes. Our retrofit services fully align with government funded schemes requiring PAS 20238. We can support clients through the application, delivery, and reporting process.

Do you provide design services as part of PAS 2038 delivery?

Absolutely. We provide detailed design and specification to RIBA Stage 4, ensuring that the chosen retrofit measures are technically sound, compliant and ready for procurement.

Can you help with post-installation monitoring?

Yes. We offer post-occupancy evaluation and performance verification to ensure that retrofit outcomes are achieved and sustained. We have an inhouse Measurement and Verification team who can support.

Get in Touch

We’d love to hear from you – whether you have a question, a project in mind, want to explore job opportunities, or just want to say hello.

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PAS 2038 Retrofit

PAS 2038 Retrofit Projects that Make an Impact

What Is PAS 2038?

Our Services:

Retrofit Assessment

Retrofit Strategy Development

Design and Specification

Installation Support

Post-Installation Review

Retrofit Assessment

Retrofit Strategy Development

Design and Specification

Installation Support

Post-Installation Review

Why Choose Arthian's Energy team?

Integration

Our Experience

Our Understanding

Results Driven

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PAS 2038 mandatory for public sector retrofit projects?

What’s the difference between PAS 2035 and PAS 2038?

Can you support PAS 2038 projects funded schemes?

Do you provide design services as part of PAS 2038 delivery?

Can you help with post-installation monitoring?

Get in Touch