Accreditation Framework

SECTION 1 — What We’re Doing Now

Our Aim for the Drainage Engineer Register

The Drainage Engineer Register (TDER) is moving from a handbook into a fully operational accreditation and audit system. This will allow:

• Engineers to prove their competence
   
• Companies to demonstrate safe and compliant operations
   
• Clients, councils, insurers and FM teams to verify competence instantly
   

We are now developing the online accreditation framework, pricing model and application system so engineers and contractors can join and renew easily.

SECTION 2 — Accreditation Framework Overview

Pathway From Entry Level 0 to Fully Accredited Engineer

TDER introduces a structured route for all drainage professionals:

• Level 0 – Entry / Provisional Operative

• New starters
  
•  Basic induction and registration
   
• Visible to employers and clients as “working towards Level 1”
   
• Levels 1–3 – Technicians & Engineers

• Competence in drainage operations
   
• Diagnostics, patching, problem-solving
   
• Increasing responsibility
   
• Levels 4–5 – Specialists & Consultants

• Complex rehabilitation
   
• CIPP lining
   
• Excavation strategy
   
• Senior diagnostics and reports
   

Entry levels remain valid for 3 years unless the engineer chooses to progress earlier.

SECTION 3 — Accreditation Process (Summary)

1. Online registration
    
2. Upload of training and experience evidence
    
3. Competence mapping
    
4. Assessment and audit
    
5. Accreditation issued
    
6. Renewal cycle:
    
   • Individuals: every 3 years
      
   • Companies: annual audit
     

SECTION 4 — Pricing Structure 

Individual Engineer Accreditation

Level What’s Included Price

Level 0 – Entry / Provisional Registering new starters, visible on TDER as “developing”.£0 (introductory)

Levels 1–3 – Technician / Engineer Personal accreditation, digital ID, listing. From £120/yr 

Levels 4–5 – Specialist / Consultant Senior accreditation, enhanced listing. From £220/yr  

Company Accreditation Packages

Package Includes Price 

Company Listing (Light) Basic company profile linked to accredited staff. 

From £150/yr 

Full Engineer & Company Audit One fully accredited engineer + full contractor audit + use of TDER Approved Contractor mark. 

£450/yr 

Excellence / Specialist Centers Multi-engineer & specialist audits. 

POA  

SECTION 5 — What’s Coming Next

Soon we will add:

• Full online application forms
   
• Secure payments & renewal dashboard
   
• Searchable National Register
   
• CPD and career progression tools
   
• Document templates and guidance