BPI certification

For those that are interested in BPI certification, there are a few things to understand. Specialized training is not required before you attempt to get certified. However, those that undergo training often have better results during the certification process. They obtained advanced understanding of various policies and procedures involved and the certification process. Each designation has a specific set of knowledge and standards that professionals must understand and demonstrate before receiving certification. By going through training, many certification seekers gain a thorough understanding of both the testing process as well as knowledge of what the testing is looking for.

BPI, or the Building Performance Institute, or one of their affiliates conducts the testing for certification. However, BPI does not conduct the training. BPI provides recognition of BPI training professionals. There are training professionals and companies associated with BPI located in many areas around the country. Follow-up has shown that people that complete a training program usually perform better when testing for the BPI certification. Nevertheless, training is not necessary in order to sign up to take the test for certification.

Those that go for BPI certification will take 100-question exam and perform a field exam to demonstrate their knowledge. The test covers general concepts around building science as well as the concept of the “house as a system.” In addition, the test involves questions surrounding the designation that the applicant desires. For those going for more than one designation during the testing period, the exam question count goes down to 50 questions per designation. The applicant must still complete the field exams. Every applicant must pass both the written and field exams with 70% or higher. Applicants must also pass the carbon monoxide and the combustion appliance zone portions of the field exam by 85% or above. It usually takes up to six weeks to get the final exam results.

A good number of professionals do not pass the test the first time. BPI allows applicants to take a test up to three times in a given year. If those that fail the test, they can immediately re-schedule for their next attempt. For those that successfully received their BPI certification, continuing education is highly recommended. Every certified professional must go through recertification every three years. Many training companies provide supplemental training that reinforces and adds to the knowledge of many professionals. Many certified professionals decide to add additional designations at the time of their recertification.