What Does It Mean to Be a Passivhaus Certified Tradesperson?

Originating in Germany, Passivhaus [or Passive House] is an internationally recognised standard for ultra-low energy homes that are comfortable, healthy and affordable to run. Passivhaus homes are designed and built according to five key principles:

01. Higher-quality and generous amounts of insulation
02. High-performance, triple-glazed windows
03. Airtight [draught-free] construction
04. A ventilation system which recovers heat
05. Thermal bridge-free construction

Together, these principles drastically reduce the need for conventional heating [and cooling]. In fact, a certified Passivhaus typically uses around 79% less heating than the average Scottish new build — delivering big savings on bills, while keeping you warm and comfortable year-round.

A Passivhaus Certified Tradesperson is someone who has undergone specialist training and passed a rigorous exam set by the Passive House Institute [PHI] in Germany.

Certification lasts for five years. To remain certified, tradespeople must demonstrate that they’re actively working on Passivhaus projects and continuing to advance their skills and knowledge.

This internationally-recognised qualification shows these skilled trade professionals understand:

• The five core principles of Passivhaus
• The science behind Passivhaus and how to achieve strict airtightness targets and meet other Passivhaus criteria
• The correct installation of insulation and airtightness products
• Detailing for thermal bridge-free construction
• How to handle and install ventilation systems for superior indoor air quality
• Window and door installation to Passivhaus standards
• The practical challenges and solutions involved in delivering Passivhaus homes
   

After passing the exam, Certified Passivhaus Tradespeople are listed on an international directory, making it easy for clients to find qualified, detail-focused professionals.

Passivhaus homes are measurably better performing than standard new builds, delivering extremely low heating demand, comfortable temperatures and fresh, filtered air 24/7. But these benefits only materialise if the home is built precisely as designed. Even a small error, like a gap in insulation, a poorly sealed membrane, or an ill-fitted window can undermine the building’s performance and lead to costly rework.

That’s why it’s so important to use certified Passivhaus professionals. Although many builders claim to deliver energy-efficient, Passivhaus homes, only certified tradespeople truly understand why the details matter, where the risks are, and how to build to the standard.

When you’re making a significant investment to build a Passivhaus, you want the process to be both successful and enjoyable, and choosing certified professionals gives you the best chance of achieving that.

A Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson:

• Spots issues before they become costly mistakes
• Understands the sequencing and care needed for airtightness
• Communicates well with Passivhaus designers and Passivhaus certifiers
• Helps avoid expensive remedial work after failed airtightness tests
• Brings confidence to clients that the building will perform as promised

Although many builders claim to deliver energy-efficient or Passivhaus-standard homes, we’re one of only a few builders in the UK who are certified and internationally recognised as Passivhaus Tradespeople.

All our builders and joiners have completed specialist Passivhaus training. They maintain absolute vigilance throughout the build process and are dedicated to getting it right the first time — avoiding costly rework and ensuring your home performs as promised.

As a compact, family-run business, we’re committed to building homes that meet this world-leading standard.

• Take the first steps to building your Passivhaus by sending us a message.