This paper presents the initial theoretical framework adopted for a study into resident acceptance of sustainable renovation. Seven expert interviews and two retrospective case studies revealed that the relationship between social housing residents and the renovation process requires careful attention. Rather than performance indicators and liveability, acceptance and practices should be the first priority in planning the process. This is because residents' future behaviour will be a crucial aspect in the actual energy-saving outcome, and disappointments should be avoided. The paper sets out a number of cornerstones for a process to foster acceptance, and presents an outlook towards participatory tools that could be used in such a process.