Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to discuss the methodology and results of using thermography for pre-retrofit (pre-R:T) and post-retrofit (post-R:T) surveys undertaken to qualitatively assess retrofitted external wall insulation (EWI) on pre-1919 existing dwellings with solid exterior walls. Design/methodology/approach -This study involved undertaking qualitative thermography surveys before and after installation of EWI at two mid-terrace dwellings in Swansea (UK). One dwelling was part of a whole-street approach and the other was an isolated installation. Findings -The two case studies have provided evidence of potential thermal bridges created as a result of an incomplete covering of EWI. Whilst overall heat loss appears to have been reduced, further evidence is required to establish the extent to which these thermal bridges reduce overall thermal performance.Research limitations/implications -Only two schemes undertaken in Swansea (UK) are represented in this study and are therefore not a reflection of EWI installations generally. Nevertheless, the study suggests more general concerns with the installation of EWI where a continuous covering of insulation cannot be achieved. Further research is required to assess the long-term implications of thermal bridges on the condition of the dwelling and the health of occupants. Originality/value -This paper has introduced and tested a pre-R:T and post-R:T methodology for assessing the thermal performance of deprived dwellings, which have had EWI retrofitted to solid exterior walls. By using the pre-R:T and post-R:T methodology the paper has demonstrated a visual method for illustrating problems in retrofitting EWI and highlighted improvements in thermal performance, which can be used by stakeholders involved in the maintenance and improvement of existing dwellings.

This paper discusses the results of five case studies of dwellings in Swansea, UK, that received retrofitted external wall insulation through the first phase of the Welsh government's 'Arbed' scheme in Wales between 2010 and 2012.Arbed is part of the Welsh government's carbon dioxide emissions reduction and fuel poverty policy objectives.Energy consumption, costs and carbon dioxide emissions data are presented and discussed for each case study, which were collected as part of a doctoral research project undertaken in collaboration with two housing associations in Swansea, Wales. These data are analysed to assess alleviations of fuel poverty, reductions in carbon dioxide emissions and the payback of the interventions. Furthermore, unintended benefits and the implications for further dwellings receiving external wall insulation are also discussed. This paper will be useful to stakeholders involved in the upgrade of existing buildings built around 1919 in reviewing options that give the best payback against energy and carbon dioxide emissions savings.

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Although smoking was banned in public laces last July, there are exemptions and ventilation is the key to controlling environmental tobacco smoke.

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