ABBE Certificate for Retrofit Assessors Level 3

In a nutshell

This qualification is designed to cover all aspects of PAS2035 Retrofit Assessor role giving the learner the knowledge, understanding and skills to carry out an assessment and produce a condition report. It includes understanding the principles and standards of retrofit, understand the building structures, appraisal of buildings and occupancy assessments which are all essential in this role.

This course is available as part of a Personal Learning Account (PLA). PLA is an initiative from the Welsh Government which offers people the chance to access free, part-time courses with flexible and convenient learning that fits around their existing lifestyle (subject to eligibility).

This course is for...

...anyone aged 19+, living in Wales and in employment. The usual salary cap of £32,371 a year does not apply for this course.

... those already working in the built environment or construction sector.

... those who want to demonstrate the skills and knowledge that they have gained through employment to achieve a nationally recognised qualification.

... current Domestic Energy Assessors who want to upskill to a Retrofit Assessor.

Course content

This course covers how to assess dwellings for retrofit, identify improvement options, design and specify energy efficiency measures and monitor retrofit projects. Such retrofits are absolutely essential to help reduce the carbon emissions from homes and to help tackle climate change. Originating from the work of the Each Home Counts review, PAS aims to establish a robust framework of standards on how to conduct effective, whole house energy retrofits of existing buildings.

The Level 3 Certificate for Retrofit Assessors qualification has been developed to enable those working in the construction and built environment sector to take a qualification which covers the PAS2035 Retrofit Assessor role. The qualification will meet regulatory requirements and will use the Accreditation Schemes to produce the report.

This course is classroom based. This traditional approach involves attending in-person classes at our training centre. In a classroom setting, instructors deliver lectures, conduct discussions, and provide hands-on exercises or case studies related to domestic retrofit assessment. This format allows for direct interaction with the instructor and fellow learners.

Centre Details

Sustainable Energy Centre, Old Compton Place, Corporation Rd, Newport, NP19 4AD (Inside Robert Price Building)

Free parking available

To achieve this qualification, learners must achieve the eight mandatory units:

• Understand the principles of PAS2035, Trust Mark and the Data Warehouse
• Retrofit energy efficiency advice
• Understand retrofit standards
• Understand retrofit risk assessment and the impact it has on assessors
• Understand the building physiology
• Occupancy Assessment
• Carry out an appraisal of a dwelling
• Produce a condition report for a dwelling

Individuals taking the Level 3 Retrofit Assessor course are expected to fulfil certain requirements and demonstrate specific qualities throughout their learning journey. Here are some expectations:

• Commitment and dedication: Taking the course requires a genuine interest and commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable building practices. Participants should be willing to invest time and effort in learning the necessary concepts, methodologies, and techniques.
• Technical aptitude: A basic understanding of building science, energy concepts, and mathematics is beneficial. Participants should be comfortable with numerical calculations, data analysis, and using software tools for energy modeling and analysis.
• Attention to detail: Retrofit assessors need to be meticulous in their assessments, data collection, and analysis. They should pay close attention to details to ensure accurate results and reliable recommendations.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills: The course involves analyzing building systems, identifying energy-saving opportunities, and evaluating retrofit measures. Participants should possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills to effectively assess energy performance and propose appropriate solutions.
• Communication and report writing: Retrofit assessors are expected to communicate their findings, recommendations, and reports to clients, building owners, or project stakeholders. Strong written and verbal communication skills are important for conveying technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Adaptability and continuous learning: The field of energy efficiency and retrofitting is constantly evolving. Participants should be open to learning new technologies, techniques, and industry standards. They should demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to stay updated on emerging trends and best practices.
• Collaboration and teamwork: Retrofit assessors often work in collaboration with other professionals, such as architects, engineers, and contractors. They should be able to collaborate effectively, contribute to multidisciplinary teams, and coordinate efforts to implement retrofit projects successfully.
• Professionalism and ethics: Retrofit assessors are expected to adhere to professional standards, ethics, and confidentiality. They should maintain integrity, honesty, and respect for clients, stakeholders, and the profession as a whole.

By fulfilling these expectations, individuals can maximize their learning experience, excel in their roles as retrofit assessors, and contribute effectively to the field of energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.

After completing the Level 3 Retrofit Assessor course, individuals can pursue various career paths and opportunities in the field of energy efficiency and sustainable building practices. Some possible next steps include employment in energy assessment and retrofitting or studying further qualifications including Level 5 Retrofit Coordinator, Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Insulation Building Treatments and Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Insulation Building Treatments.

Entry Requirements

There are some general entry requirements for this course:

• Domestic Energy Assessment or DEA: Each candidate must complete the DEA qualification which is also available from Coleg Gwent PLA. Ask your Coleg Gwent advisor for more details.
• Educational background: Typically, there are no strict educational prerequisites for this course. However, a basic educational background in a related field such as engineering, architecture, building science, environmental science, retrofit, or a related discipline is beneficial.
• Experience: Prior experience in the field of energy efficiency, building assessments, or related areas can be advantageous but is not always required. The course may be suitable for individuals seeking to enter or transition into the energy efficiency and retrofitting industry.

Additional information

The PLA programme intends to provide quality career advice and guidance to participants before, during and after their learning.

Prior to being enrolled onto your PLA funded course, a individual learning plan will be discussed with you to ensure that the right learning has been considered.

This will include a general discussion on the following topics:

• formal education or qualifications in related fields
• prior experience within the industry or field
• career aspirations
• dedication of time required