The impact of housing conditions and socioeconomic status on domestic indoor overheating over summer: a study in Southwark, London, UK

The risk of indoor overheating is increasingly exacerbated by climate change, placing countries previously less affected, such as the UK, at the forefront of this growing issue. With much of the UK’s housing stock not designed to withstand rising temperatures, concerns about the impact on physical health are mounting. Social housing and low-income households are particularly vulnerable due to inadequate building design and limited access to cooling solutions.

In this study, we employed a multifaceted approach to benchmark indoor overheating by integrating data on home environments and socioeconomic factors. We investigated the influence of variables such as housing conditions and tenure on the extent of overheating. The study was conducted in Southwark, one of the most deprived boroughs in London. Participants from 40 homes took part during the summer of 2023. Sensors were deployed in each home to measure temperature, humidity, and other environmental indices, while surveys were conducted to gather self-reported data on housing conditions, types, and tenure. Using this combined data, the severity of indoor overheating was benchmarked, and priorities for home improvements were ranked.

Furthermore, for the targeted homes, the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of various improvement options were assessed using Urban Building Energy Modelling (UBEM). This analysis provides valuable decision support for local authorities, offering insights into how indoor environments impact health and well-being, particularly in relation to socioeconomic disparities.