Surrey County Council (SCC) has signalled its intention to establish a Domestic Retrofit Framework. This is a four-year agreement worth up to £50,000,000 (including VAT) aimed at delivering high-quality domestic retrofit installations across Surrey. The goal is measurable reductions in carbon emissions and household energy bills, alongside improving homes' resilience to climate change.
The formal tender notice is expected around June 2026. If you're operating in the retrofit, energy efficiency or renewables sector, now is the time to start preparing. Contact our team for a review of your position.
What the Framework Will Cover
The framework is broadly described as covering high-quality domestic retrofit installations. The precise lot structure hasn't been published yet; SCC notes it may be divided by type of measure, technology, or value band. The CPV codes and scope strongly suggest the framework will be relevant to providers delivering:
- External wall insulation and cavity wall insulation
- Loft and floor insulation
- Heat pumps and low-carbon heating systems
- Solar PV and battery storage
- Whole-house retrofit assessments and coordination
- Ventilation and associated energy efficiency measures
Businesses holding PAS 2030/2035 accreditation, Trustmark registration and relevant MCS certifications will be well-placed. If you're not yet accredited, consider whether you can be by the time the tender is published.
Bidding Considerations
- Evidence measurable outcomes: SCC is focused on demonstrable carbon savings and bill reductions. Your bid should be built around evidenced results, not just installed measures.
- Align with government retrofit frameworks: The council's approach is likely to align with national standards around PAS 2035 and Retrofit Coordinator requirements. Make sure your delivery model reflects these.
- Consider consortium approaches: Whole-house retrofit often requires multiple specialist trades. If your business covers one element well, consider partnering with complementary installers to offer a broader package.
- Monitor for the tender: As this is still at planned procurement stage, the lot structure and final requirements will only become clear when the notice is published. Register your interest via the official notice to be notified of updates.
Quick Facts
- Buyer: Surrey County Council
- Estimated value: £50,000,000 (including VAT)
- Term: 4 years
- Type: Framework agreement (lot structure to be confirmed)
Key Dates
- Tender notice publication (estimated): 1 June 2026
For retrofit contractors and energy efficiency specialists who want to build a public sector pipeline in the South East, this is well worth watching. Get in touch with Thornton & Lowe for tailored support as the tender approaches.
