Retrofit Coordinator Steps Up to Challenge of Listed Building Assessment in County Durham
- Andrea Stephenson-Hemmings
- Jun 11
- 2 min read
PasCheck is celebrating the achievement of its newest team member, Daniel, who recently completed his Level 3 Award in Energy Efficiency for Older and Traditional Buildings — and was immediately put to the test on a challenging assessment at a Grade II Listed property near Blanchland, built in 1862.
Daniel’s proactive approach to professional development stood out to PasCheck. He completed both the Retrofit Coordinator and traditional buildings qualifications independently, without support from his previous employer.
“That kind of initiative really impressed me,” said Director Andrew Lawton. “He took full responsibility for upskilling himself — so we gave him the ultimate baptism of fire.”
Daniel’s first listed building assessment took place earlier this week, with Andrew joining him on-site for what became a detailed, four-hour survey. Together, they worked with the new homeowners to assess retrofit options that would improve energy performance while preserving the building’s heritage character - all in line with PAS 2035 requirements.
“It was a complex property, and Daniel handled it with real patience and professionalism,” Andrew said. “This is exactly the kind of challenge that shows how vital skilled people are in this sector.”
The qualification is a nationally recognised benchmark for those working on pre-1919 homes and listed buildings, enabling practitioners to give sensitive, compliant advice tailored to traditional construction.
PasCheck works across the North East to deliver independent retrofit coordination and compliance support, with a particular focus on older housing stock. The team prides itself on learning together — blending individual expertise with a shared commitment to quality and integrity.
“When Debbie first joined us, she didn’t know what retrofit was,” Andrew added. “Now she confidently manages compliance across the PAS 2035 journey. That’s the kind of internal growth that helps us deliver a trusted, consistent service.”
