What is an EPC Assessor?

There are basically 3 types of Assessors

1. Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA)
2. On Construction Domestic Energy Assessor (OCDEA)
3. Non Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA)

1. Domestic Energy Assessor

The role of an epc assessor is to visit domestic properties and undertake an energy assessment on the property. The data is then entered into approved government software which is then lodged onto a register.

2. On Construction Domestic Energy Assessor (OCDEA)

The role is to carry out Sap calculations from building plans for new built properties or dwelling change of use to show compliance with building regulations. Once completed the sap calculations are provided for building control and an EPC is lodged on the epc register.

3. Non Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA)

The role is to visit commercial properties and carry out an energy assessment on the property. The data is then entered in approved government software which then produces the EPC. The epc  is then lodged onto the national epc register.

In this article we are going to talk about becoming a Domestic Energy Assessor, which is the most common of the different assessor strands.

How to become an epc assessor

Training needs to be undertaken through an accredited training organisation. There are various training organisations as well as the main accreditation bodies such as Stroma, Elmhurst, EMCK and Quidos who also provide training.

The course is usually around 5 days and pretty intensive as a lot has to be crammed into that period. The cost of the course depends on the training provider and is usually in the £1,000 – £1,500 range. Once the training is complete, the trainee has to complete a portfolio of various items relating to the job as well as an assessment of 5 varying property types.

Once qualified, you will receive a certificate showing this. You will then need to join one of the accreditation bodies. The accreditation bodies are Stroma. Elmhurst, ECMK and Quidos. They will vet your application. There is normally no joining fee as long as you lodge a minimum amount of EPCs per year. Once approved you will be given access to the approved software that produces and lodges the epc. For every EPC that is lodged you will be charged a lodgement fee and this is in the region of £6 – £10 depending on the quantity of work that you lodge.

Caution: when you apply to join one of the accreditation bodies, all will require  you to provide a CRB or criminal record check. If you have any previous criminal convictions depending on it’s nature, your application may be declined. So if you have any convictions it would be wise to check at the outset whether this is going to prevent you becoming an epc assessor.

My experience has shown that none of the training bodies tell you this bit of important information at the outset, but will still gladly take your money for the training.

Once qualified it is advisable to start doing assessments straight away so that the knowledge learned is retained and used and it will build your confidence as you progress. It can be quite daunting when you start to go out as you will come across many different scenarios that it’s impossible to learn in a classroom. However, your accreditation body will provide a comprehensive assessment manual that will usually have the information in. They all also have a help desk that will support you and answer your questions.

Getting work as a qualified assessor

Now this is perhaps the most important part of being an epc assessor but where you get NO training and little advice. If you’re reading this article I’m assuming you’re approaching this from a self employed basis.

To get work you’re effectively going to have to market yourself constantly. Initially it could be worthwhile joining a panel. A panel is effectively a marketing company that markets the epc then outsources the work to someone local to carry out the assessment. Because they are taking a cut of the job you will be left with a smaller cut. Make sure you are clear on who is paying the lodgement fee.

How much does an epc assessor earn?

An epc assessor could earn in the range of £25,000 – £50,000.

This largely depends on where you fit in the market, you could be doing lots of epcs at low prices, or epcs with additional add ons such as floor plans, or additional surveys for the company you are working for. It also depends on your work ethic and how much you want to put into developing your career. It can be hard work but the results that you want to achieve are up to you.

On-going costs of being an assessor

You’ll need to cover additional costs for further training to achieve your annual CPD (continual professional development) target of 10 hours per year. Probably your biggest cost is going to be vehicle maintenance, especial if you’re an active assessor you are going to be clocking up those miles and a reliable vehicle is going to be a key component to your success.

Summary

If you’re independent and organised, this could be a well worth career and as you become more established you can add another strand to your skill set by training to be accredited on one of the other strands, such as a Non Domestic Assessor, or an On Construction Domestic Assessor. Once you have more skills you can then be more particular about the type of work you want to undertake to raise your earning capacity.

Notes about the author:

Rick Dickson is a qualified and active DEA and OCDEA and has been in the energy assessor industry since 2013. He has built up a full work diary to maintain himself and 3 other self employed Assessors. He can be contacted by email at [email protected].