Domestic Energy Assessor: Training and Assessment

A Domestic Energy Assessor undertaking an assessmentWhat is a Domestic Energy Assessor?

A Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) produces Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for existing dwellings.

An EPC is a measure of the property’s energy efficiency, and includes recommendations for improvements. The DEA undertakes a short, non-invasive inspection of the property before producing the EPC using dedicated software.

Why are they needed?

UK law requires an EPC to be produced every time a home is marketed for sale or rent. This is a law that stems from the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. It says that EPCs can only be produced by “suitably qualified and/or accredited experts”.

For marketed sales, the EPC was included in the Home Information Pack (HIP).  With the suspension of HIPs, the EPC is still required and is now a standalone document.  For rentals or Right to Buy sales, the EPC is  made available by the landlord or estate agent. An estimated 1.5 million EPCs are needed every year.

In addition to these legal requirements, home owners who are looking to measure and increase the energy efficiency of their homes may choose to commission an EPC.

How do I become a Domestic Energy Assessor?

To practice as a DEA, you will need to:

  • Undertake training and assessment to achieve the ABBE Level 3 Diploma in Domestic Energy Assessment
  • Be accepted as a member of a Government-approved accreditation scheme, like the NHER accreditation scheme

A DEA inspecting a heating/hot water systemNES training and assessment packages will qualify you with the ABBE Level 3 Diploma in Domestic Energy Assessment – the essential qualification you need to produce EPCs.

Once qualified, you can join the NHER accreditation scheme for Domestic Energy Assessors, enabling you to start practicing and issuing EPCs.

The Domestic Energy Assessor qualification is the perfect foundation for you to build your energy rating business across all building types.

How is the training structured?

Whether you are new to the industry or have some existing skills and experience, we have training to suit your needs.

Our training is offered as a 5-day 'bootcamp' with training running on consecutive days.

If you do not wish to qualify as a DEA but just wish to understand how an EPC is produced, perhaps as part of the Home Energy Adviser qualification, then you can book the first 2 days of the DEA training only without any assessment - see the link to 'RDSAP Data Collection' on the right hand side.

Day One (Data Collectors and DEA Qualification)

Introduction to the programme followed by construction and services.

Day Two (Data Collectors and DEA Qualification)

Introduction to Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RDSAP) Conventions.

Day Three (DEA Qualification only)

Uploading evidence for Units 1 & 2 of the National Occupational Standards, followed by an introduction to Health and Safety Legislation.

Day Four (DEA Qualification only)

Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RDSAP) revision, Inspection requirements, followed by a practical visit to a training property.

Day Five (DEA Qualification only)

Accompanied inspection – including two EPCs carried out under exam conditions.

Our Training and Assessment team

Claire Flitt works in the training and assessment department for NES. The team assist candidates through the entire training and assessment process.

We can answer any questions you may have about training or assessment - call us on 01908 442240.

Read our terms and conditions for training and assessment.