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Deep retrofits are essential across Canada

Deep Retrofits Are Essential

Sep 13, 2024 | Latest

Content courtesy of PEMBINA institute

Split incentive or common ground?

Rethinking tenant and building owner perspectives on deep retrofits for equitable climate solutions.

 

Grey suburban house needing retrofit for climate change

 

Grey Suburban House Needing Retrofit for Climate Change

 

Older townhouse needs retrofit for climate change

 

Older Townhouse Needs Retrofit for Climate Change

 

Deep retrofits are essential across Canada for meeting climate targets and ensuring homes are healthy, climate-safe, and affordable to heat and cool. However, energy-efficient buildings can create conflicts between residents and building owners. In rental properties, owners fund deep retrofits, but residents typically reap the benefits, such as lower utility bills and improved health outcomes, leading to a split incentive. This dynamic reduces owners’ motivation to invest in these projects, while residents fear rent hikes or renovictions.

 

This split incentive delays crucial retrofits needed for climate-safe and affordable buildings. Addressing both owners’ and residents’ concerns is vital to overcoming this issue. The Pembina Institute, in partnership with CityHive, surveyed Metro Vancouver building owners and residents to understand their views on deep retrofits. Findings showed residents support retrofits but worry about affordability impacts, while owners are deterred by high costs and uncertain returns. Both groups, however, value benefits like improved air quality and reduced carbon emissions.

 

Solving the split incentive challenge requires collaboration between residents and landlords. The Pembina Institute is exploring solutions such as setting joint performance objectives, participating in incentive programs, and considering alternative financing like green leasing. Retrofitting multi-unit residential buildings is crucial for a healthy, climate-safe, and affordable housing stock in Canada. Meaningful consultation with both parties will help maximize benefits and minimize costs.

 

Westeck isn’t just about products—it’s about service and innovation. The Westeck team is dedicated to guiding you through the selection process, ensuring you get the perfect fit for your home. And with a focus on continuous improvement, staying ahead of trends, ultimately providing you with the latest in window and door technology. Choosing Westeck means investing in quality, style, and peace of mind. Whether it’s windows, doors, or patio doors, Westeck offers solutions that enhance your home’s beauty, comfort, and efficiency. So why settle for anything less? Upgrade your space with Westeck and enjoy the perfect blend of form and function.

Westeck is a premier manufacturer of windows and doors. All major North American and European windows and doors are locally manufactured and proudly displayed in seven well-appointed showrooms including Kelowna, Victoria, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Nanaimo, Kirkland and Bellingham in Washington State. Each window and door is built to order, our customer have the freedom to design and create a product that is unique and personal. Enjoy our latest line of energy efficient windows and doors designed to enhance modern and contemporary architecture.

If you’d like to learn more about our windows, doors, and patio openings contact us Toll-free (US/Canada): 1-877-606-1166 or email us at sales@westeckwindows.com for a consultation with one of our Project Consultants.

 

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