Adoption dynamics of integrated home renovation pathways by homeowner associations: A multi-case study from the Netherlands

Abstract

The uptake of deep energy renovations in European condominiums remains limited, despite the emergence of innovative Integrated Home Renovation Services (IHRS) that aim to reduce recognized barriers. Despite introducing new renovation possibilities, the extent to which these services are adopted is shaped by homeowners' views of their relevance, feasibility, and associated risks. The paper examines homeowners’ experiences with market-driven renovation pathways and highlights the key conditions required to enable their wider adoption. This study aims to answer the question: How are market-driven renovation pathways perceived and adopted by homeowner associations, and how do different renovation pathways shape these adoption dynamics? The study draws on four Dutch case studies representing different pathways for energy renovation. These include two integrated renovation concepts built around a living-cost-neutral approach, a phased pathway combining completed and planned renovation measures, and a financing strategy based on densification through rooftop extensions. Empirical material was gathered through semi-structured interviews with private IHRS providers and homeowners, together with document review and expert workshops. Homeowners differed in how they experienced financial risks, governance issues, trust, and uncertainty during the process. The cases showed that progress was often slowed by the need for collective agreement, long and demanding processes, and a lack of alignment between institutions. Based on these findings, the study identifies implications for IHRS service and business-model design and for policy support, with lessons for adapting market-driven renovation pathways to other European condominium contexts.