Union Technical to retrofit more than 30 Edinburgh homes

Union Technical will deliver the home improvement services in partnership with environmental charity Changeworks, which will support management and evaluation, across 34 flats in Edinburgh, Cluny Gardens, Oswald Road, and Charterhall Road.

As part of the wide-ranging work, the company will improve insulation in lofts, cavity walls and garages, repair external rendering, provide draught-proofing and improved ventilation, as well as full window overhauls and installation of smart heating controls.

The contract, Union Technical’s first for Viewpoint, was awarded under the National Retrofit and Decarbonisation Framework, a procurement route designed to fast-track energy efficiency improvements in homes across the country.

In addition to making each home noticeably warmer and more comfortable and reducing heating bills, the improvements will also help to secure vital housing stock at a time when Scotland is experiencing a housing crisis.

Owen Coyle, director and co-founder, Union Technical, said: “We look forward to working with Viewpoint to deliver this important project. These improvements will make a real, lasting difference to residents’ lives, and ensure they can continue to live in their local communities. Too often, we overlook how important it is to wellbeing to help people keep living in the local areas they know and love.”

Residents will also benefit from smart thermostats, which give households greater control over their heating and help cut unnecessary energy use. Improved ventilation systems will be fitted to ensure homes stay healthy without losing warmth, a common problem in older, poorly insulated properties. Work will also be carried out to seal gaps in the building fabric that allow cold air to come in and warm air to get out.

Simon Haile, director of assets at Viewpoint Housing Association, said: “At Viewpoint, our priority is creating homes where people can feel comfortable, secure and supported as they grow older.

“This programme of investment across Cluny Gardens, Oswald Road and Charterhall Road will make a real difference to residents’ day-to-day lives, keeping homes warmer, improving air quality and giving greater control over energy use at a time when household costs remain a key concern.

“Working with Union Technical and Changeworks, we’re delivering thoughtful, practical improvements that reflect our commitment to sustainability, quality and care. It’s about protecting our homes for the future, while helping residents continue to live well and independently in the communities they know and love.”

Works will take place this Spring and are expected to take around three months to complete.