CPD and Training for Domestic Energy Assessors: Learning Beyond Compliance
Continuous professional development (CPD) is a core part of being a Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA). Rather than simply being a requirement to remain active, CPD should be embraced as an opportunity to expand your knowledge, refine your practical skills, and stay confident and competent in a rapidly evolving industry.
Why CPD is Valuable, Not Just a Requirement
CPD allows DEAs to engage with the latest RdSAP conventions, software updates, and industry best practice. It also provides a structured way to reflect on past inspections, understand common challenges, and improve future assessments. When approached as a learning tool, CPD enhances your professional judgement and ensures the quality of your EPCs.
Learning Through Mentoring
Mentoring is a powerful way to gain insight from more experienced assessors. It provides practical guidance, real-world examples, and support in tackling complex properties or unusual situations. Even experienced DEAs benefit from mentoring, using it to refine methods, review case studies, and discuss challenges that arise during inspections. For more on mentoring benefits, see our article on the value of mentoring.
Training Modules and Online Learning
Formal training is not just a box-ticking exercise; it’s an investment in your professional growth. Online courses and modules offered by providers such as Elmhurst Energy and ECMK cover essential topics like secondary heating, identifying building age, and safe property access. Engaging with these courses helps you stay confident, accurate, and up to date with current regulations.
Planning CPD as a Learning Journey
Effective CPD involves planning activities that genuinely develop your skills. Consider what areas of your work could benefit from deeper knowledge or refreshed techniques. CPD activities can include:
- Structured online courses or webinars that introduce new concepts
- Mentoring sessions to review inspections and discuss problem properties
- Reading technical guidance, RdSAP updates, and industry publications
- Attending workshops or industry events to gain hands-on insights
Recording and Reflecting on CPD
Maintaining a CPD log is more than an audit requirement; it’s a reflection of your professional growth. Record courses completed, mentoring sessions attended, and other learning activities. Review these periodically to identify areas for further development and to ensure that your skills evolve with the industry.
Final Thoughts
CPD for domestic energy assessors should be treated as a valuable, ongoing part of being an effective energy assessor. Approached correctly, it allows you to learn from past experiences, explore new techniques, and strengthen your professional knowledge. By embracing CPD as more than a compliance task, you can enhance the quality of your work, build confidence, and remain at the forefront of domestic energy assessment.
