5 Sustainable Refurbishment Tips for Care Homes and Care Facilities

Refurbishment projects are a major opportunity for care operators. By taking a sustainable approach, you can cut energy and water bills, reduce compliance risks, and create safer, healthier spaces for residents and staff. Families and regulators increasingly expect care homes to show commitment to sustainability, making it both a cost and reputation issue.

Below are five practical ways to make your care facility refurbishment more sustainable.

1. Choose Sustainable Materials

   Eco-friendly materials protect indoor air quality and reduce long-term costs. Low-VOC paints and adhesives improve living conditions, while responsibly sourced timber and recycled metals lower the carbon footprint. Durable flooring reduces repeat replacements, saving money and waste. Choosing sustainable materials can cut a facility’s emissions by up to 30% while creating healthier environments for residents.

2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Systems

   Energy is one of the largest controllable costs in care settings. Replacing traditional bulbs with LED lighting reduces consumption by as much as 75%. Smart controls and motion sensors prevent unnecessary usage, and solar panels can provide renewable energy for the long term. These upgrades not only save money but also align with Care Quality Commission (CQC) guidance on reducing environmental impact.

3. Reduce Water Consumption

   Bathrooms and wet rooms are high-use areas where small changes make a big difference. Low-flow taps, sensor-operated fixtures, and showers with flow restrictors can reduce water use by up to 50% without compromising service. Recycling greywater for gardens further reduces reliance on mains water, helping to cut bills and support local resources.

4. Minimise Refurbishment Waste

   Construction waste is costly and environmentally damaging. Recycling timber, plasterboard, and metals prevents unnecessary landfill use, while fixtures can often be repurposed or donated. A clear waste management plan can divert up to 75% of refurbishment waste from landfill, reducing disposal costs and showing regulators that sustainability is taken seriously.

5. Design Sustainable Outdoor Spaces

   Outdoor areas matter for both sustainability and resident wellbeing. Planting low-maintenance greenery, using permeable paving, and capturing rainwater for irrigation all lower environmental impact. At the same time, outdoor spaces provide sensory stimulation, encourage activity, and support dignity for residents, enhancing quality of life.

Why Sustainable Refurbishment Matters

Sustainable refurbishment in care homes reduces operating costs, improves compliance, and protects reputation. It demonstrates to families, residents, and regulators that your facility is well-managed and forward-looking. For operators, these upgrades are not just about the environment — they are about occupancy, safety, and long-term savings.

If you need any help prioritising, phasing, or delivering sustainable refurbishments that improve compliance and day-to-day care, we're always happy to give advice and guidance.

Contact the team