Both titles are equal in terms of qualification with reference to the Passive House relevant knowledge. The requirements for attaining this certificate and for renewal are also the same. Normally, Passive House Designers work in planning offices on the concrete implementation of the Passive House Standard, while Passive House Consultants usually contribute to its dissemination through their work as researchers or speakers, or as decision makers in government authorities.
A clear classification is not always easy due to the diverse educational qualifications, professions and the legal provisions relating to buildings worldwide. For this reason, the Passive House Institute has specified two possibilities for classification as a "Certified Passive House Designer":
Providing proof of an educational qualification which enables you to plan buildings or technical building systems independently. This educational qualification should have reached a certain level (e.g. diploma or bachelor degree) and have been attained in a specialised subject which primarily involves the planning of buildings or building services systems.
Providing proof of membership in an institution, whose members are entitled to provide planning services which are subject to approval by a building authority (e.g. Chamber of Architects). In case of uncertainty, and outside of Germany, the course/examination host or the assessing body should be contacted.
You qualify for the Designer title if you have the following educational qualification:
Architect or interior designer
Civil or timber construction engineer
Building physicist
Building and energy technology engineer
Master carpenter
Certified technician for structural engineering, building construction, heating plumbing and ventilation technology or supply technology
If you have the following educational qualification, you qualify for the Consultant title:
Degree in (analytical) chemistry, electrical engineering or manufacturing engineering
Engineering degree in environmental technology and resource management
Construction industry environmental safety technician
Environmental engineer
Gas, plumbing and ventilation systems technician
Woodwork technician
Certified technician for electronics
Energy consultant
Architectural draftsman
Geometrician
Woodwork technican for window installation
Managing director
Property sales manager/estate agent
Economist
► Please upload your proof of education when registering for the examination. The attained Consultant title can be changed into the Designer title, if such proof is only obtained and submitted later on (e.g. taking an examination during training). If no proof is submitted, the Consultant title will be granted upon successful qualification. If you have questions please contact designer@passiv.de
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