The retrofit industry is rapidly growing and plays a crucial role in enhancing the energy efficiency and sustainability of buildings. If you’re interested in launching a career in this field, becoming a Retrofit Assessor is an excellent starting point. In this blog post, we will outline the steps to become a Retrofit Assessor, including the relevant standards, necessary training, and the rewarding opportunities this career can provide.
What Is a Retrofit Assessor?
A Retrofit Assessor conducts thorough property evaluations to assess energy performance, building condition, and occupancy. They inspect insulation, ventilation, and heating systems while identifying structural issues like dampness or mould that may affect retrofitting. The data they collect is essential for Retrofit Coordinators and Designers, ensuring efficient and compliant upgrades. Retrofit Assessors also review existing energy efficiency installations to ensure compatibility with new upgrades. Their findings are compiled into a detailed report, including an EPC, condition survey, and occupancy assessment, guiding the next steps in the retrofit process.
The resulting report is lodged in the Trustmark Data Warehouse where Retrofit Coordinators and other stakeholders can access the data to progress retrofit projects. Click here to read an article detailing a typical day in the life of a Retrofit Assessor.
Retrofit Assessors act as the boots on the ground for Retrofit Coordinators, and together they work to improve the energy efficiency of each building they tackle. With each project they undertake, retrofit professionals push the country towards our Net Zero Goals and help reduce fuel poverty, protecting the more vulnerable families in our society.
PAS2035
PAS 2035 is the essential framework for domestic energy retrofits, ensuring projects are safe, effective, and compliant with best practices. The role of the Retrofit Assessor was created in response to this standard, making them key to aligning projects with its requirements. Their assessments help guarantee that energy-saving measures perform as intended and support long-term property goals.
PAS 2035 applies to all retrofit professionals and is mandatory for projects funded by schemes like the Warm Home: Social Housing Fund, Energy Company Obligation, and Local Authority Delivery Scheme.
Are Retrofit Assessors In Demand?
As anyone in the energy sector knows, the government places significant importance on energy efficiency. Over the past few years, billions have been invested in projects to support the UK’s transition to a greener, more energy-efficient future. According to the Energy Saving Trust, households account for 21% of the UK’s carbon emissions* . To achieve any of our Net Zero goals, our housing stock needs a substantial energy efficiency upgrade. Clearly, retrofit assessors play an integral role in this transformation.
Several government-funded schemes also require retrofit assessments. For example, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a government scheme that provides funding to help poorly rated homes (with an Energy Performance Certificate rating of D or lower) receive discounted or free energy efficiency improvements. Each of these upgrades necessitates a retrofit assessor.
Additionally, the general public is becoming increasingly aware of energy efficiency and the advantages of having an energy-efficient home. We have seen a growing number of individuals proactively seeking Energy Performance Certificates and retrofit assessments to enhance their properties, recognising the benefits of these improvements. Energy assessments are no longer seen merely as a legal obligation.
What Prior Qualifications Do I Need?
To become a Retrofit Assessor, you need to meet specific qualifications. Anyone interested in this role must hold, or be working towards, a Level 3 Certificate in Domestic Energy Assessment (DEA).
In addition to this, there are no other necessary formal qualifications. However, it is important to possess a few key skills:
What is the Training Like?
Energy Trust offers two competency-based training courses for aspiring Retrofit Assessors, both leading to ECMK & TrustMark accreditation. In addition, each course includes a free first-year membership and iPad app access upon accreditation.
Retrofit Assessor Distance Learning Course – 2 Day Live Online
This interactive virtual course offers two days of expert-led training in an online classroom, enabling learners to ask questions and participate in discussions. The course covers the following topics:
- The Basic Principles of PAS 2035 and TrustMark
- Retrofit Roles
- SAP, RdSAP and PHPP
- The Retrofit Assessment
- Occupancy Assessment
- Condition Survey
- Ventilation Assessment
- Significance Survey
- Thermal Performance and U-Values
- Heat Loss and Thermal Bridges
- Ventilation & Airtightness
- Practical Guidance – How to Conduct a Retrofit Assessment
At the end of the course, learners will complete a test case and a multiple-choice exam to demonstrate their competency. Upon successful completion, they will receive a certificate of competence, which can be submitted to an accreditation body for official certification.
Online, Self-Paced Retrofit Assessor Course
Our online, self-paced retrofit training course is a great choice for those with a busy schedule. Learners can work through the interactive modules at a time, pace and place that suits them. This course covers the same material as the live online training (see above) but offers the flexibility of independent learning.
While this is self-led learning, students are not left to navigate it alone. Throughout the process, learners have access to a helpline with a personal tutor who is available to answer any questions that may arise.
Once students complete the syllabus, they receive their certificate of competence and they’re ready to join an accreditation scheme and start working!
New Entrants – Domestic Energy Assessor and Retrofit Assessor Combined Course
If you are completely new to the industry, you will first need to qualify as a Domestic Energy Assessor as a prerequisite to becoming a Retrofit Assessor. At Energy Trust, we offer a combined training package to study the Level 3 Certificate in Domestic Energy Assessment, followed by the Retrofit Assessor course. For more information on what this training involves, please visit our website.
What Career Opportunities Are There For A Retrofit Assessor?
As a Retrofit Assessor, you have the flexibility to determine your work style. Some individuals prefer to be self-employed, allowing them to set their own schedules and work according to their preferences. Others opt to work for an employer. Retrofit Assessors are currently in demand across various industries, including housing associations, local authorities, energy companies, and specialised retrofit firms.
Retrofit Coordinators
A Retrofit Coordinator is involved in every retrofit project and often plays a key role in the hiring process. As a result, Retrofit Assessors can find opportunities by reaching out to local retrofit coordinators to collaborate on their projects.
Local Authorities and Housing Associations
Local authorities have access to government funding for PAS2035 retrofit projects, each requiring a Retrofit Assessor. While some may employ in-house assessors, they often need additional support during busy periods. This presents opportunities for Retrofit Assessors to offer their expertise. By reaching out to local authorities, assessors can position themselves to assist in meeting the demand for these important projects.
Retrofit And Home Improvement Companies
Similar to local authorities, retrofit and home improvement companies often employ in-house Retrofit Assessors. However, during peak periods, they may hire qualified third-party assessors to help manage the increased workload. This opens up additional opportunities for assessors to offer their services and meet the demand.
Career Development
Retrofit Assessment can serve as a gateway to a range of exciting and varied career opportunities. Retrofit is a complex and broad field, offering many specialised roles to explore. For example, many Retrofit Assessors progress to become Retrofit Coordinators, stepping into a more strategic, ‘big picture’ role. Retrofit Coordinators oversee the entire project, managing each stage from start to finish.
How Do I Book?
Energy Trust’s Retrofit Assessor courses are expertly designed to equip you with the essential skills to assess properties and contribute to retrofit projects with both competence and confidence. If you want to learn more or book your space online, please visit our website; or call us to speak to one of our friendly sales team at 0333 012 0002.
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