Elmhurst’s ABBE (Awarding Body of the Built Environment) qualification course provides a fantastic opportunity for those completely new to and familiar with the world of energy and building performance assessment, to become fully qualified as a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA).
During this 3 day online course you will learn how to complete a full domestic energy assessment using industry specialised RdSAP software. The skills you gain from this will enable you to assess the energy performance of existing UK residential buildings (houses, bungalows and flats), and produce that all important Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
Why train with Elmhurst?
As the UK’s largest government-approved EPC accreditation provider, we have a genuine vested interest in your success, because our name is on your certificate. We don’t just train you and leave you to it; we continue to support you throughout your career with resources, CPD, technical support, and a strong professional community.
Course Delivery
Our instructor-lead online learning programme combines presentation slides, activities and class discussions to provide an engaging learning experience tailored to various learning styles. This learning can be completed from the comfort of your own home or the office – no need for extra travel expenses!
Although this course is predominantly online, you will be required to complete test EPCs away from the course as part of your assessed portfolio. This will demonstrate that you have the practical know how to complete energy assessments of Domestic properties.
Once you have passed your portfolio you will be awarded with the ABBE Level 3 certificate, and will be eligible to join Elmhurst’s leading DEA Accreditation scheme.
Prerequisites
This course is suitable for new entrants with no previous energy assessment experience. However, the following prerequisites must be met before booking/attending this course:
- You must be 18 years or older
- Possess ‘Basic IT Skills’ (As outlined below)
- Have access to Microsoft Word
- Have access to a PC or Laptop (Apple MAC Computers are NOT compatible)
- Have access to Zoom (Available free online)
Course Breakdown
Before your course start date, you will receive an online portfolio login, which lists all the tasks you will need to complete (Different tasks can be completed before, during or after the course). These tasks will
You can see a full breakdown of what is included on the 3 day course and beyond, in the drop downs below.
We will complete approximately 3 modules, which include:
- ABBE Level 3 Qualification and requirements
- An Overview of the Pre course Modules
- The EPC Requirement and Exemptions
- The RDSAP Software and background
- Property types and building regulations
- Property ages and Construction
We will complete a further 3 modules, which include:
- Measurements
- Conservatories, Flats and Roof types (including loft conversions)
- Floors, Openings, Ventilation and lighting
- Space Heating Part 1
We will complete the remaining Modules, which include:
- Space Heating Part 2
- Secondary and Water Heating
- New Technologies, meters and Recommendations
- The EPC Certificate
- Discussion and guidance regarding the E-portfolio system and completing tasks.
As part of the ABBE qualification, you will need to complete five test case EPCs, which will form a key component of your portfolio. You will be given the opportunity to use 2 ‘paper based’ simulated test cases which includes a selection of ages and property types. 3 test cases must be sourced by the candidate and completed practically.
Your test cases must meet the requirements of the ABBE property matrix (you will receive this with your training materials).
Please note that as part of the course you are provided with access to software for training purposes only, the software cannot be used for commercial purposes.
Once you have completed and passed your portfolio you will be awarded with the ABBE Level 3 Certificate, and will be eligible to join Elmhurst’s leading DEA Accreditation scheme.
Please note: When you apply to become an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor you will need to provide a UK address, supply identification and a basic disclosure certificate (DBS/CRB) which must be within the past 3 years. You can find more information via the link below.
- Open and edit Microsoft Word documents
- Rename Documents
- Open and Save Files
- Save files to Folders
- Create Zip Folders
- Navigate your desktop
- Access and use Zoom
- Laser Measure (Disto) – for accurate opening, room and wall measurements.
- Steel Tape Measure (5–30m) – backup for manual measurements or tight spaces.
- Camera / Smartphone with Good Camera – to take photographic evidence of building features.
- Torch – essential for inspecting lofts, under-stairs cupboards, and poorly lit areas.
- Binoculars or Zoom Lens – for examining roof insulation, roof type, or window details from ground level.
- Compass – to determine the orientation of the property.
- Ladder (Loft Access Step Ladder) – to access lofts safely (compact or telescopic preferred).
