Qualifications

One of the aims of the Property Care Association is to improve the technical standards throughout the remedial building preservation industry.  The PCA achieve this by providing high quality training and meaningful qualification. 

CSRT is a nationally recognized professional qualification administered by the Property Care Association and awarded by the Institute of Wood Preserving and Damp Proofing (IWPD). This qualification should be attained by all surveyors who specialise in damp diagnosis and timber decay in buildings.

In order to be awarded the CSRT qualification, candidates must demonstrate that they understand and can accurately diagnose a wide range of damp and timber problems that affect buildings. The examinations test candidates on their ability to correctly diagnose defects and specify remedial solutions for damp, fungal decay and insect attack that affect buildings. The examination also includes an assessment of the candidate's knowledge of legal matters and health and safety legislation.

The examination is made up of three separate modules – Health, Safety & Law, Damp and Timber – each must be taken and passed to achieve the CSRT qualification.  The exams comprise written, practical and oral elements and are moderated by an independent chief examiner. When the surveyor has successfully gained the qualification they have the right to use the initials CSRT, to signify this achievement.

The PCA also provides accreditation for surveyors that specialise in structural underground waterproofing. The Certified Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW) qualification is awarded and administered in the same way as CSRT, using independent chief examiners to assure quality and credibility.

The operatives that deliver remedial building repairs are also able to demonstrate their competence and knowledge through qualification. PCA provides a technicians qualification that examines the candidates theoretical and practical knowledge of dampness and fungal decay in buildings.