The format of the EPC and the underlying RdSAP methodology is being revised and this will require DEAs to undergo top up training. In order for you to continue producing EPCs after 1st April 2012 you must have completed this top-up training and have passed the examination. This forms the new Award in Domestic Energy Assessment Professional Development which represents eight learning hours.

These changes are taking place to make the EPCs more understandable to the public, resulting in a more user friendly and clearer format that shows more clearly the potential savings that can be achieved by carrying out energy saving actions. These changes have been made by the DCLG in readiness for the introduction of the Green Deal in October 2012.

As a practicing DEA you will need to obtain this top-up qualification that will allow you to:

• Understand and explain the changes made to the EPC and underlying RdSAP methodology
• Appreciate how the EPC and the role of the DEA fit in with wider Government policy. 

There will be a significant demand for training and exam places over a short period of time and we have taken steps to reserve sufficient capacity to ensure that all BRE candidates will have access to the training and the exam.

 Why train and sit the exam with BRE?

• BRE brand and expertise
• Free online training
• Option to attend face to face training (see details below)
• Options for exam preparation
• Options for combined training and exam day
• Dedicated exam place capacity at BRE Watford and at a range of regional centres

The online training materials will be free to all BRE candidates through the BRE’s on-line training portal.  

The examination will be an on-line assessment, which will be available from February 2012.The exam format will be a multiple-choice assessment consisting of 40 questions, which will typically take 60 minutes to complete. There is no restriction to the number of re-sits that can be taken, each resit will incur an additional fee of £30.00 + VAT.

Please note that the Up-skilling training and examinations will no longer be available after October 2012.  Following this date the full new DEA course will need to be taken.