Indoor environment sensor systems for healthier homes: a feasibility study in social housing

ABSTRACTThis study examines the feasibility of using an indoor environment sensor system to improve property management and health in social housing. Over a 6-year period, sensors were installed and maintained in 280 homes to monitor temperature, humidity, and air quality, with the sensor data provided to residents and the Housing Association (HA) through co-designed dashboards. Employing a mixed method sequential research design, feasibility was evaluated using the RE-AIM model. From the residents’ perspective, monitoring the indoor environment was acceptable, but adoption rates of the dashboard were low and there was minimal evidence of its effectiveness in prompting changes in behavior. From the HA perspective, the system proved effective in identifying high-risk homes, prompting the HA to reach out to vulnerable residents, and provide more timely support and maintenance. The system also facilitated long-term monitoring, planning, and helped the HA achieve its social objectives and legislative responsibilities. Despite initial technical challenges, HA staff expressed a desire to continue using the system, integrate it with existing infrastructure, and expand its deployment to more homes. However, scaling the intervention would require careful planning. In conclusion, sensor systems are a feasible intervention that holds promise in helping to address health risks in underserved communities.