10 Tips to Choosing the Best Retrofit Training Provider

With growing demand for sustainable buildings, net-zero targets, and energy efficiency, the retrofit industry is expanding rapidly. Whether you’re a contractor, energy assessor, project manager, or business owner, staying updated with evolving standards and skills is essential. With many training providers offering courses in PAS 2035, retrofit coordination, insulation systems, and more, how do you choose the right one? Here are our top tips to help you make the best decision for your career or team.

1. Know What You Need – Now and for Your Future Growth

Start by identifying your current role and next steps:

• Do I need to become PAS 2035-compliant?

• Does my business need to train current and future team members/sub-contractors?

• Am I aiming to become a Retrofit Coordinator or Retrofit Assessor?

• Do I need training in specific systems (e.g., external wall insulation, airtightness)?

• Is CPD or accredited qualifications the right route?

Training 4 Retrofit offers a FREE training needs analysis to align your growth and quality objectives with your training needs.

2. Look for Industry-Approved Training Providers

Credibility matters in retrofit. Look for providers that are:

• Certified to deliver PAS 2035-related training

• Endorsed by professional bodies like ABBE, City & Guilds, NOCN

• Experienced in the industry—have they operated under PAS 2035 or just read it?

• Able to offer funding to help with costs?

Funding schemes like Green Skills Bootcamps and CiTB-subsidised courses are available. The Warm Homes Skills Programme is expected to deliver over £8m in funded retrofit training starting September 2025.

3. Assess the Course Content for Real-World Application

Retrofit is hands-on. A good provider offers more than theory:

• Do they cover live case studies, on-site scenarios, or role-specific responsibilities?

• Are courses aligned with current PAS 2035:2023 standards and updates?

• Do they include moisture risk, whole-house retrofit principles, or design coordination?

A generic course won’t prepare you for real retrofit projects. If your provider doesn’t provide practical training, are they right for you?

4. Research Trainer Expertise in Retrofit

The best trainers have real retrofit experience:

• Professionals who’ve worked in the roles they teach—how many retrofit assessments has your tutor completed?

• Trainers with a credible track record in retrofit

• Instructors who’ve contributed to live projects under ECO4, SHDF, or LADS programs

Their practical knowledge provides insights you can’t find in textbooks.

5. Check Format, Flexibility, and Support

Many professionals balance studies with work. Consider:

• Blended learning: online theory + in-person workshops or site visits

• Self-paced learning for flexibility

• Post-training support like mentoring, exam prep, or portfolio guidance (especially for Retrofit Coordinator roles)

Ensure the course helps you register with a certification body. You don’t want to find out it doesn’t provide the right qualifications after completion.

6. Read Reviews from Other Retrofit Professionals

What do past learners say?

• Did the course help them pass assessments or gain TrustMark approval?

• Was the training easy to follow? Were assessors responsive with feedback?

• Could they apply the knowledge on real jobs?

Look for testimonials from similar roles or ask for case studies and success stories.

7. Evaluate the Return on Investment – Not Just the Cost

Retrofit training is an investment. A well-chosen course can unlock:

• Higher-paying roles

• Access to government-funded projects

• Better quality, compliance, and fewer costly mistakes on-site

Consider total value—exam fees, certification, support, and career impact—not just the price.

8. Ask About Accreditation, Progression, and CPD

Ongoing learning is key in retrofit. Choose a provider who supports growth:

• Can you progress from Retrofit Assessor to Coordinator to Designer?

• Do they offer CPD modules to stay compliant as standards evolve?

• Will course hours count toward professional body membership or renewals?

This ensures your training is part of a broader professional journey.

9. Request a Taster Session or Demo

Good providers offer:

• Sample videos or access to a learning portal

• Free consultations to assess your needs

• Previews of course content or delivery style

This lets you gauge quality before committing. Ask questions about your specific situation.

10. Check for Funding, Grants, or Employer Schemes

You may be eligible for:

• CITB funding for construction-related training

• Government-backed schemes (e.g., Skills Bootcamps in Retrofit)

• Employer-sponsored courses through supplier partnerships

• Warm Homes Skills Fund: awards expected in September 2025

A good provider will guide you through funding options or help with paperwork.

Final Thoughts

Retrofit standards evolve rapidly, and staying qualified is critical. Choosing the right training provider can make the difference between ticking a box and advancing your career or business.