The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has released a comprehensive and impartial guide aimed at updating consumers on the latest recommendations regarding the use of spray foam for insulating residential properties.

Enhancing the thermal efficiency of homes can lead to significant reductions in energy bills and carbon emissions, and installing insulation along with draught-proofing is an effective way to achieve these goals. Spray foam insulation is one option that can be applied in various areas of a building as part of a broader thermal improvement strategy.

However, despite its popularity over the past several decades, spray foam is often marketed as a quick and easy solution. In reality, the installation of spray foam represents a significant alteration to a home that requires careful planning and consideration.

The RICS guide aims to educate consumers on the advantages and disadvantages of spray foam insulation, drawing from extensive research into its effects. This resource is designed to enhance consumer confidence, enabling homeowners to make informed decisions.

Key topics covered in the guide include:

• The impact of spray foam on a property’s roof structure, thermal performance, and market value

• Best practices for installing insulation in your home

• How RICS-accredited members can assist in assessing your property

This guide comes in response to recent high-profile Trading Standards cases that have highlighted issues such as poor workmanship, unauthorized modifications to listed buildings, and aggressive sales tactics targeting vulnerable groups, including the elderly. These concerns have also affected certain sectors of the lending market, particularly equity release mortgages, which now have broader implications for lenders.

Sam Piplica, Senior Specialist in Building Standards at RICS, stated:

“We are pleased to offer this free consumer guide on spray foam insulation. RICS is committed to serving the public, and this guide focuses on educating and raising awareness about potential issues related to spray foam, allowing individuals to make informed choices backed by research and due diligence.

“RICS is also actively participating in an industry working group to enhance the quality of products and services within this sector, benefiting both our members and the wider industry.”

Click this link to download the guide