As part of this field effort, we conducted 22 full home sustainability diagnostics and surveyed a total of 60 homes, combining Building Science and Weatherization tools, in-depth interviews with families, and technical measurements aimed at identifying domestic risks and opportunities for improvement.

Main Findings

Through the systematization of the data collected from the 60 homes, we identified recurring patterns of housing and energy vulnerability, including:

• Air infiltration through unsealed walls and roofs, generating heat loss and thermal discomfort.
• Partial or missing thermal insulation in roofs and walls, affecting both energy costs and health.
• Severe humidity and ventilation issues, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, with mold growth and sanitary risks.
• Precarious or informal electrical installations, sometimes with exposed wiring or overloaded circuits, posing a fire hazard.
• Carbon monoxide levels above safety thresholds, often combined with wood or gas heating systems lacking proper exhaust.
• High concentrations of indoor particulate matter, affecting air quality and respiratory health, especially for children, older adults, and pregnant women.
• Domestic accidents linked to unsafe wood stoves or deteriorated gas installations.

Safety of installations:

• Assessment of electrical installations (safety, formality, and load capacity).
• Review of gas and water systems.
• Identification of risks related to poor combustion, unsafe heaters, or lack of proper ventilation.

Household interviews:

• Household composition, health conditions, and relationship with the home.
• Energy use habits and heating strategies.
• Energy expenditure (gas, firewood, electricity) and estimation of energy poverty levels.
• Perception of thermal comfort and behavioral adaptations to climatic conditions.