Water Regulations Level 1 BPEC Study Mode: Part Time   |    Course Level: Level 1

Where will this course lead?

This course provides learners with a fundamental understanding of water regulations and byelaws, focusing on the legal requirements for plumbing systems in the UK. It is designed for those working in or entering the plumbing and heating industry.

Successful completion enables learners to legally carry out work on water supply systems and is often a requirement for joining a competent person  cheme. It supports progression to further specialist plumbing qualifications or employment as a plumber, water regulations inspector, or related roles in the construction and utilities sectors.

What will I study?

• The Water Regulations & Byelaws Manual (WRWB)
• The legal framework and industry standards relating to the Water Regulations (1999)
• Requirements for compliance with water regulations in plumbing installations
• Practical application of water regulations in domestic and commercial settings

How will this course be delivered?

This is a short, intensive course delivered over 1 day in a classroom-based setting. It includes tutor-led theory sessions and practical case studies to prepare learners for the final assessment.

What qualifications will I get?

BPEC Water Regulations/Byelaws Certificate

How will I be assessed?

Two multiple choice question papers (one open book, one closed book)

Practical assessment identifying contraventions of the Water Regulations

How do I get a place on the course?

Entry onto the course is subject to a short interview with the course team, where your experience, interests, and career goals will be discussed to ensure the course is the right fit for you.

What are the entry requirements?

• Some prior knowledge of plumbing and the water industry is required
• Ideally suited to practicing plumbers or heating engineers
• Independent study prior to attendance is recommended

What else do I need to know?

· The course will require substantial self-study to stay on top of the assignments and technical content.

· Time management is essential, especially when balancing practical tasks, written assessments, and independent learning.

· 100% attendance is expected to ensure no content is missed, as sessions often include hands-on activities and assessment preparation.

· Learners should be prepared to engage with technical manuals, industry standards, and design calculations outside of taught sessions.

· Access to a laptop or device for digital resources and assignment completion is recommended.

What can I do after this course?

· Legally carry out plumbing work that involves connection to the mains water supply.

· Join a competent person scheme or apply for membership with recognised bodies (e.g. WaterSafe).

· Progress to further plumbing qualifications or specialist courses such as unvented hot water systems or heat pump installation.

· Improve employability in domestic and commercial plumbing roles.

Local employer demand:

· Stratford-upon-Avon has a strong and ongoing demand for qualified plumbers and heating engineers, with vacancies in domestic, commercial, and public sector roles.

· Local employers include established firms like Hinton Buckley Ltd, Avon Services Heating & Plumbing Ltd, and Stratford Heating, as well as contractors working on new builds and retrofits.