The short version
- Main routeNVQ Diploma in Building Maintenance (Repair & Refurbishment), Level 2
- Leads toBlue Skilled Worker card
- HowAssessed on your own jobs. No classroom.
- You needCurrent work in the trade to show
- TimeOften a few months, depending on your evidence
Do a bit of everything? The multi-trade NVQ is built for maintenance operatives and handymen who cover several trades.
Who it's for
- Maintenance operatives for councils, housing associations and facilities firms
- Multi-skilled handymen
- Repair and refurbishment workers
New to the trade? On-site NVQs need real jobs to assess, so they're not for complete beginners. Start with an apprenticeship or college course. See routes for new starters.
Which qualification?
| Qualification | Level | Card it leads to |
|---|---|---|
| NVQ Diploma in Building Maintenance (Repair & Refurbishment) | 2 | Blue Skilled Worker |
You pick units that match the repairs you actually do, such as carpentry, tiling or decorating.
What the assessor wants to see
- Repair jobs across different trades
- Work tickets or job logs
- Before and after photos
- A supervisor witness statement
Tip: Job tickets from a maintenance contract are great evidence. Keep copies.
How it works
Quick skills check
A short check of your multi-trade experience works out the right level and pathway.
Register
You're registered with the awarding body and given a portfolio to fill.
Build your evidence
Photos, job sheets and witness statements from work you're already doing.
Site visit
The assessor joins you on maintenance jobs, which could be a door repair one visit and a leaking trap or tiling repair the next.
Discussion
They'll ask how you diagnose faults, keep tenants and customers safe, and know when a job needs a specialist.
Certificate
After a quality check, you're qualified.
How long it takes
Maintenance operatives on housing or facilities contracts usually see a wide variety of jobs, which helps evidence build quickly.
Cost
Expect to pay roughly £800–£1,000 + VAT for a Level 2 or 3 with a private assessment centre. Supervisory and management levels cost more. These are ballpark figures. The price usually covers registration, assessment and the certificate. Some providers offer instalments, and employers may be able to claim a CITB grant.
Getting your card
The Level 2 multi-trade NVQ leads to the Blue Skilled Worker card, with the CITB HS&E test.
Quick answers
Can I choose which trades go into the multi-trade NVQ?
Yes. You'll usually choose units that match the repairs you actually do.
Do job tickets count as evidence?
Yes. Tickets from maintenance contracts show the range and volume of your work.
Is this suitable for handymen?
It's designed for multi-skilled repair and maintenance work, so it often fits well.
Is there a written exam?
Not for the NVQ itself. It's assessed through evidence, observation and discussion. The CITB HS&E test for your card is separate.