Why Choose This Course?

Working on traditional buildings without the right knowledge can lead to irreversible damage and costly mistakes. This course gives you the insight needed to understand the unique characteristics of pre-1919 buildings, including the use of breathable materials, lime mortars, and the importance of sympathetic repair techniques. Whether you’re maintaining housing stock, planning retrofit works, or delivering conservation projects, this qualification will help you apply the correct methods while protecting the building’s heritage and performance.

Content Overview

This course provides learners with an essential understanding of how to approach the repair and maintenance of traditional buildings, with a focus on:

• The characteristics and construction methods of pre-1919 buildings
• Identifying common issues such as damp, decay, and structural movement
• Breathability, moisture management, and material compatibility
• The use of traditional materials such as lime mortars, renders, and natural insulation
• Appropriate repair and maintenance techniques that respect historic fabric
• The impact of inappropriate interventions and how to avoid them
• Health, safety, and regulatory considerations in traditional building work
• Introduction to conservation principles and heritage context

  Assessment involves demonstrating knowledge through written and practical activities, aligned to NOCN’s standards.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. It is suitable for anyone working in or entering the construction, maintenance, or retrofit sectors who is likely to work on pre-1919 or traditionally constructed buildings. The course is ideal for tradespeople, surveyors, property managers, or those progressing towards heritage skills qualifications. A basic understanding of building construction will be helpful but is not essential.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the course and assessment, learners will be awarded a nationally recognised qualification by NOCN. This certification demonstrates a foundational understanding of heritage building repair and maintenance and supports progression to more advanced qualifications, including NVQs in Heritage Skills or roles within conservation and traditional construction sectors.