So You’re Thinking About Becoming a Domestic Energy Assessor?

If you’re thinking about becoming a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA), the first questions are probably: Is it worth it? Can I make money as a DEA? Is there enough work out there? The truth is yes — but like any career, there are pros, cons, and practical realities to understand before you take the leap.

Becoming a DEA is not a “get rich quick” role. It’s a respected profession with clear entry routes, a regulated framework, and steady demand, but it does require effort, attention to detail, and some planning. Some online advice can seem contradictory — some say the market is booming, others warn it’s saturated. This guide will help you separate fact from opinion and give you a realistic view of the career.

In this article, I’ll cover:

• What a DEA actually does on a day-to-day basis

• How much work is available and where it comes from

• Typical income and what influences how much you can earn

• The qualifications and training you need to get started

• The pros and cons of working as a DEA

• How to structure your business for success

By the end, you should have a clear picture of whether becoming a DEA is right for you and the steps to take next.

What Does a Domestic Energy Assessor Do?

At its core, a DEA produces Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for homes. Every property that’s sold or rented in the UK needs an EPC, which makes DEAs an essential part of the housing market.

A typical assessment includes visiting the property, measuring rooms and insulation, checking heating systems and glazing, taking photographs, and entering all the information into government-approved software to produce the EPC. Every property is different, so the role requires accuracy, attention to detail, and problem-solving. Many DEAs also offer additional services such as floor plans, legionella risk assessments, and heat loss calculations.

You can read more about the equipment a DEA needs in this guide.

Is There Enough Work for DEAs?

The amount of work available depends largely on the housing market. EPCs are required whenever properties are sold or let, which creates a baseline of demand. There is also work from social housing surveys, government-funded schemes, and rental renewals.

Some DEAs rely on national panels, but the most successful independent assessors cultivate relationships with local estate agents, landlords, and housing providers. The key is not to rely on a single source of work; diversifying your clients creates stability and more consistent income.

How Much Money Can a DEA Make?

Income varies depending on experience, efficiency, location, and whether you work through panels or directly with clients.

• A new DEA working part-time via a panel might earn around £150–£250 per week.

• An established independent DEA with direct clients can earn £30,000–£40,000 per year.

• Offering additional services like floor plans, photography, or retrofit assessments can further increase earnings.

Factors that influence income include location (urban areas often have more work but higher competition), the type of clients, your efficiency in completing surveys, and your willingness to upskill or offer mentoring.

Training and Qualifications

To become a DEA, you need to complete an accredited course and achieve a Level 3 Certificate in Domestic Energy Assessment. The training usually takes 4–6 weeks and includes both theory and practical assessments.

Once qualified, you need to join an accreditation body and arrange professional indemnity and public liability insurance. Total start-up costs, including training, are typically £2,000–£3,000. Think of this as an investment in a long-term career.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a DEA

Pros:

• Flexible working hours

• Low start-up costs

• Variety — no two properties are the same

• Steady demand — EPCs are a legal requirement

• Opportunities for progression — into retrofit, non-domestic EPCs, or teaching

Cons:

• Income can fluctuate with the housing market

• Travel is part of the job — you’ll spend time on the road

• Administrative work — invoicing, marketing, tax

• Reliance on panels can limit earnings

• Physical aspects — lofts, ladders, long days

Business Structure: Self-Employed or Limited Company?

Many new DEAs wonder how to structure their business. This is covered in our post: Self-Employed or Limited Company: Which Works Best for a DEA?. Choosing the right structure affects taxes, liability, and your professional image.

We always advise you to seek professional advice before deciding which route is best for you.

Next Steps

1. Research accredited training providers, like Elmhurst or ECMK.

2. Speak with current DEAs to understand the role.

3. Budget for training and start-up costs.

4. Build local connections early — estate agents, landlords, and housing providers.

If you’re unsure whether becoming a domestic energy assessor is right for you, or you’d like advice on getting started, get in touch. I offer mentoring and practical guidance for new and aspiring DEAs. Use the contact form below, and I’ll be happy to help.