Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about our courses, payment and qualifications
Is a Commercial Energy Assessor the same as a Non-Domestic Energy Assessor?+
What is the process from enrolling on the course to receiving my qualification?+
We've designed our training process to be straightforward and supportive, guiding you from enrolment through to becoming a qualified Energy Assessor.
First, you'll complete your chosen training course. This may be through Classroom Training, Online Live Training or Self-Study (Start Stop Learning), depending on the option you've selected.
After your training, you'll complete the required assignments and portfolio as part of your qualification. Your dedicated tutor will review each submission and provide feedback if any amendments are needed. Once an assignment meets the required standard, it will be signed off by your tutor.
When all of your assignments have been successfully completed and signed off, your portfolio is passed to our Internal Quality Assurer (IQA). The IQA carries out quality assurance checks to ensure your work meets the awarding body's requirements and that the assessment process has been completed correctly.
Once the IQA has completed the quality assurance process and your portfolio has been fully signed off, your qualification is claimed from the awarding organisation. Your certificate is typically issued within two weeks of the final sign-off.
Throughout the entire process, our tutors are available to support you, answer your questions and help you progress towards successfully achieving your qualification.
How long does it take to qualify after completing the Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) course?+
The time it takes to achieve your Level 3 Domestic Energy Assessor qualification depends on the training option you choose and how quickly you complete your portfolio.
There is no fixed deadline to complete your portfolio within your course access period, so you can work at a pace that suits your schedule. However, learners who stay engaged and complete a little each day typically qualify much sooner.
Our aim is not simply to help you pass the course, but to ensure you leave with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence to carry out domestic Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) professionally from day one.
Do I need prior experience?+
What is the difference between the 3-Day Online DEA course and the 2-Day Weekend DEA course?+
Both courses cover exactly the same Level 3 Domestic Energy Assessor syllabus and lead to the same recognised qualification. The training materials, assignments, portfolio requirements and assessment criteria are identical.
The only difference is how the training is scheduled.
The comparison below shows the difference between the two delivery options.
| 3-Day Course (Weekdays) | 2-Day Course (Weekend) | |
|---|---|---|
| Days | Monday – Wednesday | Saturday – Sunday |
| Start Time | 9:30 am | 8:30 am |
| Finish Time | 3:30 pm | 5:30 pm |
| Daily Training Hours | 6 Hours | 9 Hours |
| Total Duration | 3 Days | 2 Days |
As you can see, the weekend course has longer training days, allowing us to cover the same syllabus in just two days. No topics are omitted or shortened, and every learner receives the same training materials, tutor support and guidance.
Whichever option you choose, you'll complete the same assignments and portfolio before achieving the same recognised qualification.
If weekdays are difficult because of work or other commitments, the 2-day weekend course offers a convenient way to complete your training without taking time off.
Can I pay for my course in instalments? How does the payment plan work+
Yes. We offer flexible interest-free payment plans on most of our training courses, making it easier to spread the cost of your qualification.
To secure your place, you'll pay an initial deposit when you book your course. The remaining balance (including VAT) is then divided into two equal monthly instalments.
Your instalments are due on the same date in each of the following two months after your initial payment. For example, if you pay your deposit on the 10th of the month, your remaining payments will be due on the 10th of each of the next two months.
There are no hidden charges or interest when payments are made as agreed. We'll confirm your payment schedule before your course starts, so you'll know exactly when each instalment is due.
If you have any questions about our payment plans or need help choosing the option that's right for you, our team will be happy to assist before you enrol.
Is the qualification recognised in the UK?+
What is the difference between Classroom, Online Live and Self-Study?+
All three training options lead to the same recognised qualification. The difference is simply how the training is delivered, allowing you to choose the learning style that best suits your schedule and preferences.
Classroom Training is ideal for learners who prefer face-to-face teaching in a traditional classroom environment. You'll attend our training centre, work alongside other learners and receive direct support from your tutor throughout the course. This option offers plenty of opportunities to ask questions and gain hands-on guidance.
Online Live Training delivers the same tutor-led experience remotely. You'll join your trainer and fellow learners in live, interactive sessions from the comfort of your home or office. You can ask questions in real time, take part in discussions and receive the same level of tutor support as classroom learners, without the need to travel.
Self-Study (Start Stop Learning) is designed for those who need maximum flexibility. You'll have access to all the learning materials through our online learner portal and can study whenever it suits you. If you need help, you can book video or telephone sessions with one of our tutors, giving you expert support while allowing you to learn entirely at your own pace.
Whichever option you choose, you'll receive the same high-quality training, ongoing tutor support and guidance to help you successfully complete your portfolio and achieve your qualification.
Do you offer tutor support after the course?+
Yes. Supporting you doesn't end when your classroom or online training finishes.
Every learner receives ongoing tutor support while completing their portfolio and assignments. If you need help understanding a topic, using EPC software, collecting evidence or completing an assignment, our experienced tutors are available to guide you.
For learners on our Self-Study (Start Stop Learning) course, you can also arrange video or telephone sessions with a tutor whenever you need additional support.
Even after you've achieved your qualification, we're happy to answer general questions and offer guidance as you begin your career as a Domestic Energy Assessor. Whether you need advice about lodging your first EPC, choosing equipment or understanding the accreditation process, our team is always happy to help.
Our aim is not just to help you gain a qualification, but to give you the confidence and support to succeed in your new career.
What if I fail an assignment?+
There's no need to worry. We don't expect every assignment to be perfect the first time.
If your assessor feels that an assignment needs further work, they'll provide clear, constructive feedback explaining what needs to be improved. You'll then have the opportunity to make the required changes and resubmit your work.
There is no limit on the number of resubmissions, so you can continue improving your assignments until they meet the required standard. Our goal is to help you understand the subject and successfully complete your qualification, not to catch you out.
Throughout the process, you'll have access to tutor support whenever you need it. If you're unsure about any feedback or need additional guidance, your tutor will be happy to explain what's required and help you move forward with confidence.
We believe learning should be supportive rather than stressful, which is why we work with you every step of the way until you've successfully completed your portfolio and achieved your qualification.
How do I become a working Energy Assessor after the course?+
Once you've successfully completed your qualification, there are just a few simple steps before you can start carrying out Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) professionally.
Once you're accredited and insured, you'll be able to lodge EPCs on the national register and begin working as a Domestic Energy Assessor.
Many of our learners choose to become self-employed, while others work for EPC companies, estate agents, housing associations, local authorities or property consultancies. The qualification offers flexibility, allowing you to work full-time, part-time or alongside your existing career.
At Ozone Group Training, our support doesn't stop when you qualify. We'll guide you through the accreditation process, advise you on the equipment you'll need and answer any questions you have as you take your first steps into the industry. Our aim is to help you become not only qualified, but also confident and ready to start working as a Domestic Energy Assessor.
Are the Retrofit Assessor courses also City & Guilds approved?+
One of the key advantages of training with Ozone Group Training is the flexibility you'll have once you've qualified.
Unlike some training providers that are linked to a single accreditation scheme, our courses are independent of any one scheme. This means that once you've successfully completed your qualification, you're free to choose the accreditation scheme that best suits your needs, whether that's based on membership fees, support, software, insurance options or additional services.
This gives you the freedom to compare providers and select the scheme that's right for your business or career, rather than being restricted to a single option.
If you're unsure which accreditation scheme to join after qualifying, we'll be happy to explain the available options and help you choose the one that best matches your circumstances.
Can I claim my CPD hours from your modules?+
Yes. Ozone Group Training is an accredited CPD provider, and our CPD courses are approved by The CPD Group and listed on the CPD Register.
On successful completion of a course, you'll receive a CPD Certificate of Completion showing the number of CPD hours awarded. You can use this certificate as evidence of your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) when maintaining your membership with your accreditation scheme or professional body.
Our CPD courses are designed to provide practical, up-to-date knowledge that helps Energy Assessors and other built environment professionals stay informed about industry changes, legislation and best practice.
As CPD requirements can vary between accreditation schemes and professional organisations, we recommend checking their current requirements. However, because our courses are accredited by The CPD Group and published on the CPD Register, you can be confident that you're completing recognised, high-quality CPD training.
If you're unsure whether a particular course is suitable for your CPD requirements, our team will be happy to advise you before you enrol.
Are there any hidden fees, registration fees or certification charges?+
No. We believe in transparent pricing, so there are no hidden fees.
The price you see for your course includes your training, learning materials, tutor support, assessment, internal quality assurance (IQA) and the cost of claiming your qualification certificate from the awarding organisation.
There are no separate registration fees, examination fees or certification charges added during your course.
Once you've qualified, you'll usually need to join a government-approved accreditation scheme before you can start producing Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). The good news is that joining an accreditation scheme is free with almost all major schemes, although you'll be responsible for their ongoing membership or lodgement fees, which vary between providers. Many schemes also include additional benefits such as professional indemnity insurance, public liability insurance, software and technical support as part of their membership packages.
If a course includes any optional extras or third-party costs, these will always be clearly stated before you book, so you'll know exactly what is included with your course.
Will you help me secure work after I qualify?+
Yes. While we cannot guarantee employment, we're committed to helping you take the next step in your career after you qualify.
Our tutors and team will provide guidance on becoming a working Energy Assessor, including choosing an accreditation scheme, selecting equipment, understanding the EPC process and getting started in the industry.
We'll also share advice on the different ways you can find work, whether that's working for an established EPC company, estate agent, housing association, local authority or building consultancy, or becoming self-employed and building your own client base.
As part of our ongoing support, we regularly receive enquiries from companies looking for qualified Energy Assessors. Wherever possible, we're happy to introduce our successful learners to employers and businesses looking to recruit. We also provide guidance on setting up your own business, marketing your services and growing your client base if you choose to work independently.
Our goal is not only to help you gain your qualification, but also to give you the knowledge, confidence and support to build a successful career as a Domestic Energy Assessor.
What happens after I purchase a course?+
Once you've booked your course, we'll guide you through every step of the process, making your learning journey as smooth and straightforward as possible.
Immediately after your purchase, you'll receive a confirmation email containing your booking details. Please check your inbox and your junk or spam folder, as confirmation emails can occasionally be filtered by your email provider.
The confirmation email will also contain a secure link to complete your enrolment. You'll be asked to upload any required documents so we can process your registration and prepare your course. Completing your enrolment as soon as possible helps us ensure everything is ready before your training begins.
If you've booked an online or self-study course, you'll also receive access to our Student Assessment Management System (SAMS), where you'll find your learning materials, assignments and course resources.
Before your course starts, we'll send you everything you need, including your course schedule, joining instructions and any preparation required. For online courses, you'll receive details of how to join your live training sessions. For classroom courses, we'll provide the venue information and everything you need for the day.
Once your training has been completed, you'll work through your assignments and portfolio. Your tutor will review each submission, provide feedback where necessary and sign off your work as you successfully complete each assessment.
After all of your assignments have been signed off, your portfolio is reviewed by our Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) as part of our quality assurance process. Once this has been completed, your qualification is claimed from the awarding organisation, and your certificate is typically issued within two weeks of the final sign-off.
After receiving your qualification, we'll guide you through the next steps, including joining an accreditation scheme, choosing any equipment you may need and preparing to start your career as a qualified Energy Assessor. Our support continues even after you've qualified, so you'll always have someone to turn to if you need advice or guidance.
Do you issue hard copy certificates?+
Awarding organisations now issue digital certificates for most qualifications, which are widely accepted by employers, accreditation schemes and other organisations throughout the UK.
Your digital certificate is secure, easy to store and can be downloaded and shared electronically whenever proof of your qualification is required.
If you would like a professionally printed hard copy, we can arrange this for an additional fee. Once your qualification has been fully signed off, you'll receive a sign-off email containing details of how to request a printed certificate and the applicable postage and administration charges.
If an official hard copy certificate is available from the awarding organisation, we'll provide you with all the available options in your sign-off email, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your needs.