Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0171
  3. Version: 1.1
  4. Level: 2
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 24 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 3 months
  7. Maximum funding: £14000
  8. Route: Construction and the built environment
  9. Date updated: 03/01/2023
  10. Approved for delivery: 26 March 2015
  11. Lars code: 23
  12. EQA provider: Ofqual
Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Ensuring that buildings are in a safe working condition.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the construction and built environment sector, where properties across the housing, healthcare, social care, hospitality, education, commercial, leisure, retail, and private and public sectors, require maintenance to keep them in a safe working condition, and to optimise their quality or performance.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to conduct the general day-to-day maintenance required to keep a range of properties in a good state of repair. Property maintenance operatives conduct routine maintenance tasks, and minor planned and responsive repair works, using a broad range of fundamental trade skills including carpentry, joinery, plumbing, plastering, brick and block work, external works and associated finishing trades including tiling, painting, and decorating. Operatives use a wide variety of hand and power tools, materials, components, fixtures and fittings, ensuring work that is carried out is compliant with health and safety requirements, and meets building safety regulations and legislation. This requires them to know and understand the key principles of buildings and their construction, the range of building services that support a buildings operation, including electrical, plumbing, plant, safety systems and equipment, the techniques, and processes to prevent damage. Operatives are also keenly aware of the limits of their own competence, and will respond appropriately to, and report faults and defects to, others as necessary. Increasingly, property maintenance operatives are required to support in the optimisation of building performance and minimisation of environmental impact; operatives now need to record and report building information digitally, and consider sustainability and environmental choices, such as the use, recycling, and disposal of materials and components, in order to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other maintenance staff, specialist trades people, landlords and property owners, and the staff that work within or the residents that occupy buildings. Property Maintenance Operatives assist in the location of the repair works to be carried out, and to obtain further information and clarification as required from the customer, using a range of information gathering and communication techniques, whilst recording and reporting information in a variety of ways, including using digital technologies. Whilst much of the time may be working inside properties, operatives will be regularly required to work outside, conducting maintenance and repairs to properties, including to external drainage, brick and blockwork, glazing, fencing and groundworks.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for performing planned maintenance and responsive repairs to properties, maintaining a high level of quality to the works they complete, providing maximum satisfaction to customers, clients, staff or residents within those properties. Generally, operatives work alone, but receive their direction from their supervisor or manager who selects and allocates jobs relative to the skills and experience of the operative. If on arrival the job is not as originally outlined, operatives have the responsibility to recognise their own level of competence, and report back to their supervisor or manager who will make the decision to amend the works required within the competence of the operative or assign the job to a more senior colleague or specialist professional.

Typical job titles include:

Maintenance assistant Maintenance technician Multi-skilled technician Multi-skilled trade operative Property maintenance operative Property technician

Duties

  • Duty 1 Support the planning, preparation and delivery of property maintenance tasks in accordance with building safety regulations and legislation.
  • Duty 2 Create a safe working environment by implementing the necessary control measures, through the identification, mitigation and reporting of risks and hazards, and in line with health and safety legislation, policies and procedures.
  • Duty 3 Access and utilise appropriate work plans, job sheets, specifications, drawings/diagrams, information & data sheets, taking in account factors such as regulatory requirements and legislation, performance and quality criteria, efficiency, sustainability, and the need to reduce waste.
  • Duty 4 Select, check, use and maintain tools, equipment, materials, components, compounds and parts appropriate to the task being undertaken, handling, positioning and storing these safely, and clearing away and disposing of waste safely on completion of work, and in accordance with codes of practice.
  • Duty 5 Safely isolates electrical, electronic and emergency systems to enable property maintenance operations to be performed around isolated electrical components, and the reporting of faults as required.
  • Duty 6 Perform fault diagnostics to implement a range of minor reactive or responsive plumbing and drainage repairs to a satisfactory conclusion.
  • Duty 7 Carry out preventative and corrective maintenance, minor repairs and replacement of components within water, environmental and energy management systems in accordance with current legislation, industry standards and with the manufacturers requirements.
  • Duty 8 Use carpentry and joinery skills to complete minor repairs or refurbishment to fixtures within and around properties, such as doors, windows, frames, worktops, ensuring associated fixtures and fittings are selected, installed or repaired, and working correctly.
  • Duty 9 Carry out minor plastering repairs using appropriate materials and surface finishing techniques.
  • Duty 10 Carry out remedial painting and decorating works to a range of surfaces, ensuring the appropriate and safe use of compounds, materials, tools and access equipment.
  • Duty 11 Carry out minor tiling and flooring activities or repairs using a variety of materials, tools, adhesives and sealants.
  • Duty 12 Carry out planned, responsive or temporary repairs to buildings and their immediate surroundings to make buildings safe and secure for their occupants or clients.
  • Duty 13 Communicate effectively verbally and in writing, using digital technologies to access, identify, record and report information, liaise and coordinate with other team members, and provide customer service to internal and external customers, and respecting others.
  • Duty 14 Maintain and develop competence in the property maintenance industry, recognising own levels of competence and when to escalate concerns to others, resisting the pressure to follow unsafe working practices.

Apprenticeship summary

ST0171, property maintenance operative level 2

This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.

Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.

The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 24 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.

EPA gateway

The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.

The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

Assessment methods


Practical assessment with questions

You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 10 hours. They will ask you at least 10 questions.


Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.


Multiple-choice test

You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.

The test will have 40 multiple-choice questions. You will have 60 minutes to complete it.


The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.

Who to contact for help or more information

You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.

You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.

You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.


Reasonable adjustments

If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the construction and built environment sector, where properties across the housing, healthcare, social care, hospitality, education, commercial, leisure, retail, and private and public sectors, require maintenance to keep them in a safe working condition, and to optimise their quality or performance.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to conduct the general day-to-day maintenance required to keep a range of properties in a good state of repair. Property maintenance operatives conduct routine maintenance tasks, and minor planned and responsive repair works, using a broad range of fundamental trade skills including carpentry, joinery, plumbing, plastering, brick and block work, external works and associated finishing trades including tiling, painting, and decorating. Operatives use a wide variety of hand and power tools, materials, components, fixtures and fittings, ensuring work that is carried out is compliant with health and safety requirements, and meets building safety regulations and legislation. This requires them to know and understand the key principles of buildings and their construction, the range of building services that support a buildings operation, including electrical, plumbing, plant, safety systems and equipment, the techniques, and processes to prevent damage. Operatives are also keenly aware of the limits of their own competence, and will respond appropriately to, and report faults and defects to, others as necessary. Increasingly, property maintenance operatives are required to support in the optimisation of building performance and minimisation of environmental impact; operatives now need to record and report building information digitally, and consider sustainability and environmental choices, such as the use, recycling, and disposal of materials and components, in order to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other maintenance staff, specialist trades people, landlords and property owners, and the staff that work within or the residents that occupy buildings. Property Maintenance Operatives assist in the location of the repair works to be carried out, and to obtain further information and clarification as required from the customer, using a range of information gathering and communication techniques, whilst recording and reporting information in a variety of ways, including using digital technologies. Whilst much of the time may be working inside properties, operatives will be regularly required to work outside, conducting maintenance and repairs to properties, including to external drainage, brick and blockwork, glazing, fencing and groundworks.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for performing planned maintenance and responsive repairs to properties, maintaining a high level of quality to the works they complete, providing maximum satisfaction to customers, clients, staff or residents within those properties. Generally, operatives work alone, but receive their direction from their supervisor or manager who selects and allocates jobs relative to the skills and experience of the operative. If on arrival the job is not as originally outlined, operatives have the responsibility to recognise their own level of competence, and report back to their supervisor or manager who will make the decision to amend the works required within the competence of the operative or assign the job to a more senior colleague or specialist professional.

Typical job titles include:

Maintenance assistant Maintenance technician Multi-skilled technician Multi-skilled trade operative Property maintenance operative Property technician

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Support the planning, preparation and delivery of property maintenance tasks in accordance with building safety regulations and legislation.

K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 S25

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 2 Create a safe working environment by implementing the necessary control measures, through the identification, mitigation and reporting of risks and hazards, and in line with health and safety legislation, policies and procedures.

K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S23 S24 S25

B1 B2 B3

Duty 3 Access and utilise appropriate work plans, job sheets, specifications, drawings/diagrams, information & data sheets, taking in account factors such as regulatory requirements and legislation, performance and quality criteria, efficiency, sustainability, and the need to reduce waste.

K1 K2 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S1 S2 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 S25

B1 B2 B3

Duty 4 Select, check, use and maintain tools, equipment, materials, components, compounds and parts appropriate to the task being undertaken, handling, positioning and storing these safely, and clearing away and disposing of waste safely on completion of work, and in accordance with codes of practice.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K26

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S22

B1 B2 B3

Duty 5 Safely isolates electrical, electronic and emergency systems to enable property maintenance operations to be performed around isolated electrical components, and the reporting of faults as required.

K3 K8 K9

S3 S8 S9

B2

Duty 6 Perform fault diagnostics to implement a range of minor reactive or responsive plumbing and drainage repairs to a satisfactory conclusion.

K3 K10 K11

S3 S10 S11

B2

Duty 7 Carry out preventative and corrective maintenance, minor repairs and replacement of components within water, environmental and energy management systems in accordance with current legislation, industry standards and with the manufacturers requirements.

K3 K12 K13 K26

S3 S12 S22

B1 B2

Duty 8 Use carpentry and joinery skills to complete minor repairs or refurbishment to fixtures within and around properties, such as doors, windows, frames, worktops, ensuring associated fixtures and fittings are selected, installed or repaired, and working correctly.

K3 K14

S3 S13 S14

B2

Duty 9 Carry out minor plastering repairs using appropriate materials and surface finishing techniques.

K3 K15

S3

B2

Duty 10 Carry out remedial painting and decorating works to a range of surfaces, ensuring the appropriate and safe use of compounds, materials, tools and access equipment.

K3 K16

S3 S15

B2

Duty 11 Carry out minor tiling and flooring activities or repairs using a variety of materials, tools, adhesives and sealants.

K3 K17 K18

S3 S16 S18

B2

Duty 12 Carry out planned, responsive or temporary repairs to buildings and their immediate surroundings to make buildings safe and secure for their occupants or clients.

K3 K19 K20 K21 K22

S3 S17

B2

Duty 13 Communicate effectively verbally and in writing, using digital technologies to access, identify, record and report information, liaise and coordinate with other team members, and provide customer service to internal and external customers, and respecting others.

K3 K4 K5 K6 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S3 S4 S5 S6 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S23 S24 S25

B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 14 Maintain and develop competence in the property maintenance industry, recognising own levels of competence and when to escalate concerns to others, resisting the pressure to follow unsafe working practices.

K3 K4 K5 K6 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S3 S4 S5 S6 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S21 S23 S24 S25

B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: The principles and requirements of planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and reactive maintenance. Back to Duty

K2: The range of building types and characteristic uses, their common methods of construction and typical defects, and the impact that property maintenance operations may have on building safety. Back to Duty

K3: Health and safety regulations, relevance to the occupation and the operative's responsibilities. Health and Safety at Work Act Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Working at height. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Back to Duty

K4: Risks and hazards associated with property maintenance activities, and their mitigation using risk assessment. Back to Duty

K5: Key regulatory and legislative requirements (including building regulations, the building safety bill, and BSI Flex 8670), and an awareness of how these apply to varying property types, and their impact on property maintenance operatives’ responsibilities. Back to Duty

K6: Importance of establishing a safe and tidy work area, using appropriate access equipment, providing protection to adjacent areas, and consideration for the safety of other property users. Back to Duty

K7: Common hand and power tools and equipment used in routine property maintenance tasks and how to use safely. Back to Duty

K8: The common components of electrical and electronic systems, how to safely isolate electrical supplies and the procedures for correctly reporting identified faults. Back to Duty

K9: The common forms of emergency equipment and signage, their importance within buildings and the preventative and possible corrective maintenance required. Back to Duty

K10: The principles and components of plumbing systems, how to safely isolate, store and drain down water supplies to diagnose faults and clear blockages. Back to Duty

K11: The principles and components of common above and below ground drainage systems, the issues that poor drainage can have on properties and how to diagnose faults and clear blockages. Back to Duty

K12: The principles of good water hygiene to preserve and maintain the health of water systems within buildings and how these are checked and legally certified to minimise water hygiene and legionella risks. Back to Duty

K13: The principles and components of common environmental and energy management systems and their methods of operation. Back to Duty

K14: The common defects found in windows, doors, and glazing systems, the characteristics, uses and limitations of the materials and components used within them, and how these are used to meet statutory regulations. Back to Duty

K15: The common types of materials and processes used to prepare, repair and finish plaster defects. Back to Duty

K16: The common causes of painting and decorating defects, and the types of materials, chemicals and processes used in painting and decorating activities. How paints and chemicals are stored and disposed of safely. Back to Duty

K17: The common causes of tiling defects and the types of materials and processes used in tiling activities. Back to Duty

K18: The common causes of flooring defects and the types of materials and processes used in flooring repairs. Back to Duty

K19: The common forms of masonry and damp proofing defects, materials and processes used in masonry repair activities: Mixing mortars, replacing defective pointing, laying and bonding of masonry, coping repairs and damp-proofing. Back to Duty

K20: The common types of roof structures, defects and the types of materials and processes used in remedial and temporary repair. Back to Duty

K21: The common types of fencing and railing systems, their typical defects, and the types of materials and processes used in repairs. Back to Duty

K22: The common types of groundwork and landscaping systems, their typical defects and the types of materials and processes used in remedial repair. Back to Duty

K23: Technical sources of information and data used in property maintenance operations. Back to Duty

K24: The methods to record information and data via written and digital means and the importance of data protection and security. Back to Duty

K25: The purpose of quality assurance and continuous improvement and how these improve commonly occurring faults or inefficiencies. Back to Duty

K26: Environmental regulations and requirements: Environmental Protection Act, safe disposal of waste, minimising waste (re-use and re-cycle), waste contractors permit, energy efficiency, and contribution to net zero outcomes. Back to Duty

K27: Methods of communication and when to use industry terminology to match the style to the audience. Back to Duty

K28: The importance of customer service to their organisation, how to provide feedback to ensure customers are informed of property maintenance. Back to Duty

K29: The roles and responsibilities of property maintenance operatives and the purpose and inter-dependencies of other trade operatives. Back to Duty

K30: The rights and responsibilities of an employee and employer and an awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding and prevent. Back to Duty

K31: The purpose of continuing professional development (CPD) and how this supports them to understand their limits for personal authority and competence. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Plan the sequence of work required to carry out routine property maintenance operations. Back to Duty

S2: Identify and select the appropriate materials and components for property maintenance tasks, ensuring these are compliant with relevant regulatory requirements and manufacturer's specifications. Back to Duty

S3: Comply with statutory health and safety regulations and requirements. Back to Duty

S4: Comply with risk assessments, and organise the workplace, to safeguard themselves and the property. Back to Duty

S5: Comply with key regulatory and legislative requirements, including building regulations. Back to Duty

S6: Uses safe working practices when carrying out property maintenance tasks including the use of PPE, signage, barriers, access equipment and ensuring work area is prepared and reinstated. Back to Duty

S7: Select, and use work tools and equipment for property maintenance tasks, applying all safeguards, and ensuring the correct functioning of equipment. Back to Duty

S8: Safely isolate and secure electrical or electronic supplies prior to performing property maintenance operations. Back to Duty

S9: Apply and implement routine emergency system checks, testing and routine maintenance, identifying and reporting faults as required. Back to Duty

S10: Perform maintenance and repairs to plumbing systems, including fault identification, safe isolation of supply, replacing components and clearing blockages. Back to Duty

S11: Perform maintenance and repairs to external drainage systems, including clearing blockages and replacing components. Back to Duty

S12: Perform maintenance and repairs to environmental and energy management systems, including fault identification, safe isolation of supply, replacing components. Back to Duty

S13: Use carpentry and joinery skills to perform repairs to windows, doors and glazing units, and their associated fittings. Back to Duty

S14: Perform repairs to plastered surfaces, including surface preparation, fixing and mixing materials and compounds. Back to Duty

S15: Use painting and decorating skills to prepare surfaces for decoration, apply paint using brushes and rollers, and complete sealing activities using gun appliances. Back to Duty

S16: Perform tiling repairs, including setting out, surface preparation and cutting around obstacles. Back to Duty

S17: Perform flooring repairs, including setting out, surface preparation and cutting around obstacles. Back to Duty

S18: Perform planned, responsive or temporary repairs to buildings or their immediate surroundings, attending to minor defects within either masonry, roofing, fencing or railing, groundwork or landscaping. Back to Duty

S19: Select and use technical literature and other sources of information and data to address property maintenance problems. Back to Duty

S20: Record and report information, using digital and written techniques. Back to Duty

S21: Inspect own work, ensuring it is delivered to the given specifications. Back to Duty

S22: Comply with environmental regulations and procedures. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Duty

S23: Use and adapt communication methods for different situations and when, working with colleagues and stakeholders, using industry terminology as appropriate. Back to Duty

S24: Provide customer feedback whilst maintaining customer service. Back to Duty

S25: Escalates issues beyond their level of competence and authority. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Prioritise and promote sustainable working practices. Back to Duty

B2: Prioritise and promote health and safety. Back to Duty

B3: Takes responsibility for completion of own work, Back to Duty

B4: Team focuses to meet goals. Back to Duty

B5: Contribute to equality, diverse and inclusive culture. Back to Duty

B6: Seek learning and development opportunities. Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.

Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.1

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the property maintenance operative apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Property maintenance operative apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s Register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).

A full-time apprentice typically spends 24 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway) working towards competence as a property maintenance operative. All apprentices must spend at least 12 months on-programme. All apprentices must complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules.

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are:

Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with questions:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 3 - multiple-choice test:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 24 months

The apprentice must complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) of the occupational standard.

The apprentice must complete training towards English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence.

End-point assessment gateway

The employer must be content that the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard.

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think the apprentice:

  • is working at or above the occupational standard as a property maintenance operative
  • has the evidence required to pass the gateway and is ready to take the EPA

The apprentice must have achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence the apprentice must submit a Portfolio of evidence.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

End-point assessment - typically 3 months

Grades available for each assessment method:

Practical assessment with questions

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Multiple-choice test

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction
Re-sits and re-takes
  • Re-take and re-sit grade cap: pass
  • Re-sit timeframe: typically 2 months
  • Re-take timeframe: typically 4 months

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.

The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and the EPA should start as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think their apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard. The apprentice will then enter the gateway. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider(s), but the employer must make the decision.

The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.

These are:

  • achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence the apprentice must submit Portfolio of evidence

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 12 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.

Evidence sources may include:

  • workplace documentation and records, for example:
  • workplace policies and procedures
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips (maximum total duration 10 minutes); the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.

The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

Order of assessment methods

The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.

The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.

Practical assessment with questions

Overview

In a practical assessment with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. This allows the apprentice to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. 

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because:

  • it allows for a varied range of tasks to be observed, that could not be guaranteed to be achieved through a single observation in the workplace
  • this is a practical role, best demonstrated through completing tasks in a realistic work setting
  • it allows for consistency of activities to be completed and efficiency in scheduling
  • it allows for the testing of related underpinning knowledge, skills and behaviours where an opportunity to observe them has not occurred
  • it is a holistic assessment method

Delivery

The practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical assessment with questions.

The independent assessor may conduct and observe up to a maximum of four apprentices during this assessment method. To allow for cost effective use of resources while maintaining quality, the independent assessor must be assisted by an invigilator when more than one candidate is being assessed. The invigilator cannot play a role in assessing the apprentice. Their role is to ensure that the apprentice carries out the task unaided during the period when the independent assessor is observing or questioning. The practical assessment will be conducted in separate assessment bays. Adequate separation should be implemented during questioning. This will reflect the specific environment of the test location, including line of sight, noise levels etc. to ensure reliability and fairness are not compromised.

The EPAO must give an apprentice at least 14 days notice of the practical assessment with questions.

The practical assessment with questions must take 10 hours.

The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.

The practical assessment with questions may take place in parts but must be completed over 2 working day(s). A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is the practical assessment consists of a series of practical activities and questions, which will take 10 hours, and comfort breaks will need to be provided. Where breaks occur, they will not count towards the total EPA time.

EPAOs must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations during the working day.

The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.

The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:

  • planning and organising work
  • identifying and solving common property maintenance problems
  • interpreting information and data
  • identifying, selecting and preparing materials, components, parts and other resources required for each activity
  • handling and use of hand, power tools and access equipment
  • carrying out repairs and maintenance
  • cleaning and tidying work areas, and preparing equipment for storage

The assessment will also include the safe isolation, securing and re-instatement of an electrical or electronic supply whilst performing any one of the activities below.

The practical assessment will comprise each of the following activities as a minimum. To ensure reliable assessment the tasks will vary. The EPAO will provide the apprentice with a practical assessment specification taken from a bank of practical assessment specifications.

All activities can be carried out in any order or preference as chosen by the apprentice.

Activity: Repairs to plumbing systems

The following should be observed as a minimum:

  • inspection of a plumbing system to identify damage or faults
  • draining of water, isolation and reinstatement of the water supply
  • identification and selection of materials and equipment required to complete repairs
  • completion of repairs to a waste system covering a minimum of:
    • clearing a blockage
    • replacing a waste system component (for example a trap or associated fitting)
  • completion of repairs to water supply utilising a minimum of:
    • 2 push-fittings
    • 2 compression fittings
    • 1 tap fitting or similar

Activity: Repairs using carpentry and joinery skills

The following should be observed as a minimum:

  • inspection of fixtures (doors, windows and glazed units) and their associated fittings, to identify damage or faults
  • identification and selection of materials and equipment required to complete repairs
  • application of carpentry and joinery skills to carry out repairs, covering a minimum of:
    • adjusting a door or fitting a new door (with the EPAO providing the apprentice with details on purpose and function of the door, and the building type it is to reside within)
    • repairing or replacing a window component fitting or associated fitting
    • repairing or replacing glazing beading

Activity: Repairs using plastering skills

The following should be observed as a minimum:

  • inspection of a plastered surface to identify damage
  • identification and selection of materials and equipment required to complete repairs
  • mixing of plaster and application techniques to complete repairs to plastered surfaces, covering a minimum of either:
    • one damaged area of plasterboard and finish up to 1 metre squared; or
    • one damaged area of traditional plaster and finish up to 1 metre squared

Activity: Repairs using painting and decorating skills

The EPAO will provide information on the specification being sought, such as internal or external requirements for paint and sealing activities.

The following should be observed as a minimum:

  • use of surface preparation techniques for a range of surfaces
  • identification and selection of materials, equipment and sequencing of surface preparation and paint coats required
  • use of painting and decorating techniques, covering a minimum of:
    • preparing surfaces as required
    • painting 2 metre squared of new or previously painted plaster or timber surface (such as a door)
    • painting 2 metre in length of new or previously painted timber-based surface, such as skirting board, architrave, window frames or door frames
    • applying 1.5 metre in length of finishing sealant (for example, decorators caulk or frame sealant)

Activity: Repairs using tiling skills

The following should be observed as a minimum:

  • inspection of damage to conduct repairs to a tiled surface
  • identification and selection of materials and equipment required to complete repairs
  • setting out, preparation of surface, mixing of adhesives and grout, and tiling application techniques, covering a minimum of:
    • replacing 0.5 metre squared of damaged tiling, (minimum of 9 tiles)
    • cutting around an obstacle
    • applying adhesive and grout

These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The independent assessor must ask questions to explore aspects of the KSBs not demonstrated in the practical assessment and show depth of understanding.

Questioning can occur during the practical assessment. The time for questions asked during the practical assessment is included in the overall assessment time.

Independent assessors must ask at least 10 questions during the practical assessment. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural breaks in work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from their EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training.

The independent assessor can ask follow-up questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the practical assessment with questions and should be kept to a minimum.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the KSBs observed
  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The practical assessment and responses to questions must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade. 

Assessment location

The practical assessment with questions will take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s, training provider's or employer’s premises). The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the practical assessment with questions:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Overview

In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method.

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because:

  • it allows the apprentice to be assessed against KSBs which may not naturally occur during the practical assessment
  • it is underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, enabling the apprentice to demonstrate the application of skills and behaviours as well as knowledge
  • it allows for testing of responses where there are a number of potential answers that could not be tested through a multiple-choice test
  • it is cost-effective

Delivery

The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to cover the following themes:

  • health, safety and environment
  • regulatory compliance
  • routine checking and testing of emergency systems
  • drainage
  • environmental and energy systems
  • flooring
  • responsive, planned or temporary repairs
  • information and data
  • communication and customer service
  • working practices
  • continuous improvement

The EPAO must give an apprentice at least 14 days notice of the interview.

The independent assessor must have at least 2 week(s) to review the supporting documentation.

The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence, however the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.

The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.

The independent assessor must ask at least 10 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required. The independent assessor must use the questions from their EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

Assessment location

The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s, training provider's or employer’s premises).

The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.

The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
  • training materials
  • administration materials
  • moderation and standardisation materials
  • guidance materials
  • grading guidance
  • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.

Multiple-choice test

Overview

A test is an assessment for asking questions in a controlled and invigilated environment.

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because:

  • it allows for the efficient testing of knowledge where there is a right or wrong answer
  • it allows for flexibility in terms of when, where and how it is taken.

Delivery

This method must be appropriately structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The multiple-choice test can be computer or paper based.

The multiple-choice test will consist of 40 multiple-choice questions.

Multiple-choice questions will have four options, including one correct answer.

The apprentice must be given at least 14 days notice of the date and time of the multiple-choice test.

Test administration

The apprentice must have 60 minutes to complete the test.

The multiple-choice test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.

The multiple-choice test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. Specialised (proctor) software can be used if the test can be taken on-line, to ensure the security of the test.

The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the multiple-choice test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.

The EPAO must verify the identity of the apprentice.

The EPAO is responsible for the security of the multiple-choice test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the multiple-choice test.

Marking

The multiple-choice test must be marked by independent assessors or markers employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.

A correct answer gets 1 mark.

Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.

The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the multiple-choice test. The EPAO must ensure standardisation and moderation of the multiple-choice test.

Assessment location

The apprentice must take the multiple-choice test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.

The multiple-choice test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice. The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example with, and not limited to, 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must write a test specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The test specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

The EPAO must develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering previous item performance data, item analysis, standardisation, training and moderation. EPAOs must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.

The EPAO must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the multiple-choice test:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • test specification
    • sample test and mark schemes
    • live tests and mark schemes
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

Grading

Practical assessment with questions

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Planning and activity
K7 K23 S1 S2 S7 S19 B3

Takes responsibility for own work by planning, organising, and completing each of the property maintenance activities within the allocated time. (S1, B3)

Selects and uses tools, and equipment for each of the property maintenance activities, carrying out pre-use safety checks, applying all safeguards and ensuring correct functioning of the equipment. (K7, S7)

Selects and uses materials for each of the property maintenance activities, referring to technical literature, information, and data sources to ensure materials are compliant with regulatory requirements and manufacturers' specifications. (K23, S2, S19)

Describes the decision-making process they used when selecting work tools and equipment, and the benefits these had to the successful outcome of task. (K7, S7)

Explains the consequences of non-compliance with regulatory requirements and manufacturers' specifications when selecting and using materials and components for property maintenance tasks. (K23, S2)

Health and safety
K6 S6

Applies safe working practices for each of the property maintenance activities including, using personal protective equipment (PPE), access equipment (as required) and placing signage and barriers to safeguard the immediate work and surrounding areas, ensuring the area is reinstated on completion.

Explains the importance of carrying out the safe working practices for the safety of themselves and other property users.

(K6, S6)

None.

Ensuring isolation of electrical and electronic systems
S8

Isolates the electrical and electronic system safely prior to work and re-instates it upon completion. (S8)

None.

Plumbing
K10 S10

Applies plumbing techniques to carry out repairs to a waste system, replacing components as required to complete the repair.

Applies plumbing techniques to carry out repairs to a water supply system, isolating the water supply and draining water prior to carrying out the repair, replacing components as required to complete the repair.

Reinstates water supply, ensuring waste and water supply systems function correctly on completion.

(K10, S10)

Describes the risks and common pitfalls that can occur when carrying out plumbing maintenace repairs, and the actions taken to minimise issues. (K10, S10)

Carpentry and joinery
S13

Applies carpentry and joinery techniques to carry out the repairs to windows, doors and glazing, ensuring correct functioning of repairs on completion. (S13)

 

None.

Plastering
K15 S14

Applies plastering techniques to carry out a repair to a plastered surface. Ensuring the surface is prepared and the plaster for the repair is correctly mixed and applied. Uses techniques to minimise imperfections and ensures the repair is flush to the existing surface. (K15, S14)

 

 

None.

Painting and decorating
K16 S15

Applies painting and decorating techniques to carry out painting repairs. Uses tools and equipment appropriate to the task to ensure efficiency. Prepares surfaces to minimise surface imperfections. Uses techniques to provide a neat and consistent finish to painting and sealing activties.

Cleans tools, using chemicals or water and confirms how chemical and water-based painting and decorating products should be stored and disposed of safely.

Explains the common causes of painting and decorating defects.

(K16, S15)

 

Describes the risks and common pitfalls that can occur when carrying out painting and decorating repairs, and the actions taken to minimise issues. (K16, S15)

Tiling
K17 S16

Applies tiling techniques to carry out tiling repairs, correctly preparing the surface, setting out and cutting tiles around obstacles. Uses techniques to minimise uneven tiles, incorrect spacing and excessive adhesive and grout use.

Explains the common causes of tiling defects.

(K17, S16)

None.

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Health, safety and environment
K4 S3 S4 S22 B1 B2

Describes how they comply with and prioritise health, safety and welfare policies, procedures, and regulations. (S3, B2)

Describes the risks and hazards associated with property maintenance activities and how they apply risk assessment principles to organise their activities and workplace practices to protect themselves, others, and the property. (K4, S4)

Explains how they comply with and prioritise environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures, describing how they segregate, recycle and dispose of materials. (S22, B1)

 

Explains how their practice contributes to their employer’s health and safety policies and practices. (K4, S3)

Explains the benefits of complying with environment and sustainability regulations and procedures, and the consequences of non-compliance. (S22, B1) 

 

Building regulatory compliance
K5 S5

Describes how they comply with regulatory and legislative requirements, confirming how these apply across different property types, and how they impact their property maintenance responsibilities. (K5, S5)

 

 

None.

Routine checking and testing of emergency systems
K9 S9

Describes the common types of emergency systems and their importance within buildings. Explains how they carry out routine checks, testing, maintenance of emergency systems, and esculate faults. (K9, S9)

None.

Drainage
K11 S11

Describes how they have cleared blockages and performed repairs, including the replacement of components in line with manufacturers' specifications to external above and below ground drainage systems. Explaining how they diagnose faults and the impact faults may have on the property. (K11, S11)

None.

Environmental and energy systems
K13 S12

Describes the principles and operation methods of common environmental and energy management systems. Describes how they perform routine maintenance including fault identification, safe isolation, and replacement of components within manufacturers' specifications and legal requirements. (K13, S12)

 

Explains why it is important to comply with manufacturers' specifications and legal requirements when carrying out maintenance and repairs of environmental and energy systems. Explains the consequences of not doing so. (K13, S12)

 

Flooring
K18 S17

Explains the common types of flooring finishes and their typical defects. Describes how they perform repairs to floor finishes and the techniques, tools and materials used, stating how they prepared the surface, set out and cut around obstacles. (K18, S17)

 

None.

Responsive, planned or temporary repairs
S18

Describe how they have completed a masonry, roofing, fencing or railing, groundwork or landscaping based responsive, temporary or planned repair requirement to the building fabric or its surroundings. Describes the reasons for the repair and the processes followed in carrying out the repair safely. (S18)

None.

Information and data
K24 S20

Describes methods to record and report information and data using written and digital techniques, explaining the importance of data protection and security. (K24, S20)

Explains the potential implications of not recording and reporting information securely and keeping data protected, identifying plausible risks, issues, and potential threats from poorly managed information and data. (K24, S20)

Communication and customer service
K27 K28 S23 S24

Explains the importance of maintaining customer service within their organisation and describes how they provide feedback to customers. (K28, S24)

Explains how they use and adapt communication methods for different situations, including working with colleagues and stakeholders and when to use industry terminology. (K27, S23)

None.

Working practices
K29 S21 S25 B4 B5

Explains the roles and responsibilities of property maintenance operatives, the purpose and interdependencies of other trade operatives, and how they contribute to equality, diversity and inclusion. (K29, B5)

Describes the inspection process they apply to ensure work is carried out to given specifications. (S21)

Describes issues they have escalated which were beyond their level of competence and authority and how they applied a team focus to rectify. (S25, B4)

None.

Continuous improvement
K25 K31 B6

Describes the purpose of quality assurance and continuous improvement techniques and how these can improve faults or inefficiencies. (K25)

Outlines different types of learning and development they have undertaken for their role and how they maintain their ongoing competence. (K31, B6)

 

 

 

None.

Multiple-choice test

Grade Minimum marks required Maximum marks required
Fail 0 27
Pass 28 34
Distinction 35 40

Overall EPA grading

Performance in the EPA determines the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction

An independent assessor must individually grade the: practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.

The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.

If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods, they will be awarded an overall fail. 

To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. In order to achieve an overall EPA merit, apprentices must achieve a distinction in either the practical assessment or the interview. In order to achieve an overall EPA distinction, apprentices must achieve a distinction in the practical assessment plus one other distinction grade in the multiple-choice test or the interview.

Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.

Practical assessment with questions Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Multiple-choice test Overall Grading
Fail Any grade Any grade Fail
Any grade Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass Pass
Distinction Pass Pass Merit
Pass Distinction Pass Merit
Pass Pass Distinction Pass
Pass Distinction Distinction Merit
Distinction Distinction Pass Distinction
Distinction Pass Distinction Distinction
Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.

The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.

The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 2 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 4 months of the EPA outcome notification.

Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.

Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.

The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • participate in and complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the occupational standard for a minimum of 12 months
  • complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules and as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • meet the gateway requirements 
  • undertake the EPA  

 

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the EPAO and training provider 
  • work with the training provider (where applicable) to support the apprentice in the workplace and to provide the opportunities for the apprentice to develop the KSBs
  • arrange and support off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard and is ready for EPA 
  • ensure that supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan 
  • liaise with the training provider and EPAO to ensure the EPA is booked in a timely manner

Post-gateway, the employer must: 

  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA (who, when, where) in a timely manner (including providing access to any employer-specific documentation as required, for example company policies)
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time which allows the opportunity for the apprentice to be assessed against the KSBs 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete all post-gateway elements of the EPA, and that any required supervision during this time (as stated within this EPA plan) is in place
  • where the apprentice is assessed in the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the resources used on a regular basis 
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt from the EPAO

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:  

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner 
  • conform to the requirements of the register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO) 
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP) for this apprenticeship 
  • understand the occupational standard 
  • make the EPA contractual arrangements, including agreeing the price of the EPA 
  • develop and produce assessment materials as detailed for each assessment method in this EPA plan 
  • appoint qualified and competent independent assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan to conduct assessments and oversee their working 
  • appoint administrators (and invigilators where required) to administer the EPA  
  • provide training for independent assessors in terms of good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and grading 
  • provide information, advice, guidance and documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA 
  • confirm all gateway requirements have been met as quickly as possible 
  • arrange for the EPA to take place, in consultation with the employer 
  • ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary, where the apprentice is not assessed in the workplace 
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to stakeholders 
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • have policies and procedures for internal quality assurance (IQA), and maintain records of IQA activity and moderation for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes 
  • deliver induction training for independent assessors, and for invigilators and markers (where used) 
  • undertake standardisation activity on this apprenticeship for an independent assessor before they conduct an EPA for the first time, if the EPA is updated and periodically (a minimum of annually) 
  • manage invigilation of the apprentice to maintain security of the assessment in line with the EPAO’s malpractice policy 
  • verify the identity of the apprentice  
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must: 

  • have the competence to assess the apprentice at the level of this apprenticeship and hold any required qualifications and experience in line with the requirements of the independent assessor as detailed in the IQA section of this EPA plan 
  • understand the occupational standard and the requirements of this EPA 
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence, up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation 
  • deliver the end-point assessment in-line with this EPA plan 
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO 
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • attend induction training 
  • attend standardisation events when they start working for the EPAO, before they conduct an EPA for the first time and a minimum of annually for this apprenticeship  
  • assess each assessment method, as determined by the EPA plan  
  • assess the KSBs assigned to each assessment method, as shown in the mapping of KSBs to assessment methods in this EPA plan  
  • make the grading decisions 
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions, for each apprentice, following instructions and using assessment recording documentation provided by the EPAO, in a timely manner 
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 
  • mark open (constructed) test answers accurately according to the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures 

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must: 

  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as listed in the occupational standard 
  • conduct training covering the KSBs agreed as part of the Commitment Statement or the Individual Learning Plan 
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning 
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA 

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for reasonable adjustment
  • what reasonable adjustments may be made

Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.

Internal quality assurance

Internal quality assurance refers to how the EPAO ensures valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions. The EPAO must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities section and:

  • have effective and rigorous quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent EPA regardless of employer, place, time or independent assessor
  • appoint independent assessors who are competent to deliver the EPA and who:
    • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 3 gained in the last 3 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector
  • operate induction training for anyone involved in the delivery or assessment of the EPA
  • provide training for independent assessors in good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and making grading decisions
  • provide ongoing training for markers and invigilators
  • provide standardisation activity for this apprenticeship standard for all independent assessors:
    • before they conduct an EPA for the first time
    • if the EPA is updated
    • periodically as appropriate (a minimum of annually)
  • conduct effective moderation of EPA decisions and grades
  • conduct appeals where required, according to the EPAO’s appeals procedure, reviewing and making final decisions on EPA decisions and grades
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in HEI.

Value for money

Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:

  • completing applicable assessment methods online (for example computer-based assessment)
  • utilising digital remote platforms to conduct applicable assessment methods
  • assessing multiple apprentices simultaneously where the method of assessment permits this
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

Professional body recognition is not relevant to this occupational apprenticeship.

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

The principles and requirements of planned preventative maintenance (PPM) and reactive maintenance.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K2

The range of building types and characteristic uses, their common methods of construction and typical defects, and the impact that property maintenance operations may have on building safety.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K3

Health and safety regulations, relevance to the occupation and the operative's responsibilities. Health and Safety at Work Act Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Working at height. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K4

Risks and hazards associated with property maintenance activities, and their mitigation using risk assessment.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K5

Key regulatory and legislative requirements (including building regulations, the building safety bill, and BSI Flex 8670), and an awareness of how these apply to varying property types, and their impact on property maintenance operatives’ responsibilities.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K6

Importance of establishing a safe and tidy work area, using appropriate access equipment, providing protection to adjacent areas, and consideration for the safety of other property users.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K7

Common hand and power tools and equipment used in routine property maintenance tasks and how to use safely.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K8

The common components of electrical and electronic systems, how to safely isolate electrical supplies and the procedures for correctly reporting identified faults.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K9

The common forms of emergency equipment and signage, their importance within buildings and the preventative and possible corrective maintenance required.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K10

The principles and components of plumbing systems, how to safely isolate, store and drain down water supplies to diagnose faults and clear blockages.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K11

The principles and components of common above and below ground drainage systems, the issues that poor drainage can have on properties and how to diagnose faults and clear blockages.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K12

The principles of good water hygiene to preserve and maintain the health of water systems within buildings and how these are checked and legally certified to minimise water hygiene and legionella risks.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K13

The principles and components of common environmental and energy management systems and their methods of operation.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K14

The common defects found in windows, doors, and glazing systems, the characteristics, uses and limitations of the materials and components used within them, and how these are used to meet statutory regulations.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K15

The common types of materials and processes used to prepare, repair and finish plaster defects.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K16

The common causes of painting and decorating defects, and the types of materials, chemicals and processes used in painting and decorating activities. How paints and chemicals are stored and disposed of safely.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K17

The common causes of tiling defects and the types of materials and processes used in tiling activities.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K18

The common causes of flooring defects and the types of materials and processes used in flooring repairs.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K19

The common forms of masonry and damp proofing defects, materials and processes used in masonry repair activities: Mixing mortars, replacing defective pointing, laying and bonding of masonry, coping repairs and damp-proofing.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K20

The common types of roof structures, defects and the types of materials and processes used in remedial and temporary repair.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K21

The common types of fencing and railing systems, their typical defects, and the types of materials and processes used in repairs.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K22

The common types of groundwork and landscaping systems, their typical defects and the types of materials and processes used in remedial repair.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K23

Technical sources of information and data used in property maintenance operations.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K24

The methods to record information and data via written and digital means and the importance of data protection and security.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K25

The purpose of quality assurance and continuous improvement and how these improve commonly occurring faults or inefficiencies.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K26

Environmental regulations and requirements: Environmental Protection Act, safe disposal of waste, minimising waste (re-use and re-cycle), waste contractors permit, energy efficiency, and contribution to net zero outcomes.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K27

Methods of communication and when to use industry terminology to match the style to the audience.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K28

The importance of customer service to their organisation, how to provide feedback to ensure customers are informed of property maintenance.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K29

The roles and responsibilities of property maintenance operatives and the purpose and inter-dependencies of other trade operatives.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K30

The rights and responsibilities of an employee and employer and an awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding and prevent.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K31

The purpose of continuing professional development (CPD) and how this supports them to understand their limits for personal authority and competence.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Plan the sequence of work required to carry out routine property maintenance operations.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S2

Identify and select the appropriate materials and components for property maintenance tasks, ensuring these are compliant with relevant regulatory requirements and manufacturer's specifications.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S3

Comply with statutory health and safety regulations and requirements.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S4

Comply with risk assessments, and organise the workplace, to safeguard themselves and the property.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S5

Comply with key regulatory and legislative requirements, including building regulations.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S6

Uses safe working practices when carrying out property maintenance tasks including the use of PPE, signage, barriers, access equipment and ensuring work area is prepared and reinstated.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S7

Select, and use work tools and equipment for property maintenance tasks, applying all safeguards, and ensuring the correct functioning of equipment.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S8

Safely isolate and secure electrical or electronic supplies prior to performing property maintenance operations.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S9

Apply and implement routine emergency system checks, testing and routine maintenance, identifying and reporting faults as required.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S10

Perform maintenance and repairs to plumbing systems, including fault identification, safe isolation of supply, replacing components and clearing blockages.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S11

Perform maintenance and repairs to external drainage systems, including clearing blockages and replacing components.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S12

Perform maintenance and repairs to environmental and energy management systems, including fault identification, safe isolation of supply, replacing components.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S13

Use carpentry and joinery skills to perform repairs to windows, doors and glazing units, and their associated fittings.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S14

Perform repairs to plastered surfaces, including surface preparation, fixing and mixing materials and compounds.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S15

Use painting and decorating skills to prepare surfaces for decoration, apply paint using brushes and rollers, and complete sealing activities using gun appliances.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S16

Perform tiling repairs, including setting out, surface preparation and cutting around obstacles.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S17

Perform flooring repairs, including setting out, surface preparation and cutting around obstacles.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S18

Perform planned, responsive or temporary repairs to buildings or their immediate surroundings, attending to minor defects within either masonry, roofing, fencing or railing, groundwork or landscaping.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S19

Select and use technical literature and other sources of information and data to address property maintenance problems.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S20

Record and report information, using digital and written techniques.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S21

Inspect own work, ensuring it is delivered to the given specifications.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S22

Comply with environmental regulations and procedures. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S23

Use and adapt communication methods for different situations and when, working with colleagues and stakeholders, using industry terminology as appropriate.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S24

Provide customer feedback whilst maintaining customer service.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S25

Escalates issues beyond their level of competence and authority.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1

Prioritise and promote sustainable working practices.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B2

Prioritise and promote health and safety.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B3

Takes responsibility for completion of own work,

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
B4

Team focuses to meet goals.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B5

Contribute to equality, diverse and inclusive culture.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B6

Seek learning and development opportunities.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Practical assessment with questions

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Planning and activity
K7 K23
S1 S2 S7 S19
B3

Common hand and power tools and equipment used in routine property maintenance tasks and how to use safely. (K7)

Technical sources of information and data used in property maintenance operations. (K23)

Plan the sequence of work required to carry out routine property maintenance operations. (S1)

Identify and select the appropriate materials and components for property maintenance tasks, ensuring these are compliant with relevant regulatory requirements and manufacturer's specifications. (S2)

Select, and use work tools and equipment for property maintenance tasks, applying all safeguards, and ensuring the correct functioning of equipment. (S7)

Select and use technical literature and other sources of information and data to address property maintenance problems. (S19)

Takes responsibility for completion of own work, (B3)

Health and safety
K6
S6

Importance of establishing a safe and tidy work area, using appropriate access equipment, providing protection to adjacent areas, and consideration for the safety of other property users. (K6)

Uses safe working practices when carrying out property maintenance tasks including the use of PPE, signage, barriers, access equipment and ensuring work area is prepared and reinstated. (S6)

None

Ensuring isolation of electrical and electronic systems

S8

None

Safely isolate and secure electrical or electronic supplies prior to performing property maintenance operations. (S8)

None

Plumbing
K10
S10

The principles and components of plumbing systems, how to safely isolate, store and drain down water supplies to diagnose faults and clear blockages. (K10)

Perform maintenance and repairs to plumbing systems, including fault identification, safe isolation of supply, replacing components and clearing blockages. (S10)

None

Carpentry and joinery

S13

None

Use carpentry and joinery skills to perform repairs to windows, doors and glazing units, and their associated fittings. (S13)

None

Plastering
K15
S14

The common types of materials and processes used to prepare, repair and finish plaster defects. (K15)

Perform repairs to plastered surfaces, including surface preparation, fixing and mixing materials and compounds. (S14)

None

Painting and decorating
K16
S15

The common causes of painting and decorating defects, and the types of materials, chemicals and processes used in painting and decorating activities. How paints and chemicals are stored and disposed of safely. (K16)

Use painting and decorating skills to prepare surfaces for decoration, apply paint using brushes and rollers, and complete sealing activities using gun appliances. (S15)

None

Tiling
K17
S16

The common causes of tiling defects and the types of materials and processes used in tiling activities. (K17)

Perform tiling repairs, including setting out, surface preparation and cutting around obstacles. (S16)

None

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health, safety and environment
K4
S3 S4 S22
B1 B2

Risks and hazards associated with property maintenance activities, and their mitigation using risk assessment. (K4)

Comply with statutory health and safety regulations and requirements. (S3)

Comply with risk assessments, and organise the workplace, to safeguard themselves and the property. (S4)

Comply with environmental regulations and procedures. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S22)

Prioritise and promote sustainable working practices. (B1)

Prioritise and promote health and safety. (B2)

Building regulatory compliance
K5
S5

Key regulatory and legislative requirements (including building regulations, the building safety bill, and BSI Flex 8670), and an awareness of how these apply to varying property types, and their impact on property maintenance operatives’ responsibilities. (K5)

Comply with key regulatory and legislative requirements, including building regulations. (S5)

None

Routine checking and testing of emergency systems
K9
S9

The common forms of emergency equipment and signage, their importance within buildings and the preventative and possible corrective maintenance required. (K9)

Apply and implement routine emergency system checks, testing and routine maintenance, identifying and reporting faults as required. (S9)

None

Drainage
K11
S11

The principles and components of common above and below ground drainage systems, the issues that poor drainage can have on properties and how to diagnose faults and clear blockages. (K11)

Perform maintenance and repairs to external drainage systems, including clearing blockages and replacing components. (S11)

None

Environmental and energy systems
K13
S12

The principles and components of common environmental and energy management systems and their methods of operation. (K13)

Perform maintenance and repairs to environmental and energy management systems, including fault identification, safe isolation of supply, replacing components. (S12)

None

Flooring
K18
S17

The common causes of flooring defects and the types of materials and processes used in flooring repairs. (K18)

Perform flooring repairs, including setting out, surface preparation and cutting around obstacles. (S17)

None

Responsive, planned or temporary repairs

S18

None

Perform planned, responsive or temporary repairs to buildings or their immediate surroundings, attending to minor defects within either masonry, roofing, fencing or railing, groundwork or landscaping. (S18)

None

Information and data
K24
S20

The methods to record information and data via written and digital means and the importance of data protection and security. (K24)

Record and report information, using digital and written techniques. (S20)

None

Communication and customer service
K27 K28
S23 S24

Methods of communication and when to use industry terminology to match the style to the audience. (K27)

The importance of customer service to their organisation, how to provide feedback to ensure customers are informed of property maintenance. (K28)

Use and adapt communication methods for different situations and when, working with colleagues and stakeholders, using industry terminology as appropriate. (S23)

Provide customer feedback whilst maintaining customer service. (S24)

None

Working practices
K29
S21 S25
B4 B5

The roles and responsibilities of property maintenance operatives and the purpose and inter-dependencies of other trade operatives. (K29)

Inspect own work, ensuring it is delivered to the given specifications. (S21)

Escalates issues beyond their level of competence and authority. (S25)

Team focuses to meet goals. (B4)

Contribute to equality, diverse and inclusive culture. (B5)

Continuous improvement
K25 K31

B6

The purpose of quality assurance and continuous improvement and how these improve commonly occurring faults or inefficiencies. (K25)

The purpose of continuing professional development (CPD) and how this supports them to understand their limits for personal authority and competence. (K31)

None

Seek learning and development opportunities. (B6)

Find an apprenticeship

Contact us about this apprenticeship

Employers involved in creating the standard: Direct Works Forum, Futures Housing, RFT Services / Flagship Homes, Bernicia Homes, Flagship Services, Tesco, Mears Group, Berneslai Homes, Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), Wrekin Housing Trust, Hyde Housing, Riverside, Nottingham City Homes

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.1 End-point assessment, standard and funding band revised 01/01/2023 Not set Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery 26/03/2015 31/12/2022 Not set

Crown copyright © 2024. You may re-use this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence

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