Across UK construction sites, the message is becoming clear: poor damp proof course (DPC) installation is holding back quality housing delivery — and costing the industry dearly.
The NHBC consistently cites DPC installation as the number one snag identified during key-stage inspections on new build homes. And yet, despite this long-standing issue, the construction sector continues to treat DPC as an afterthought — rushed, overlooked, and too often installed incorrectly.
It’s time that changed.
The Foundation of Quality
DPCs are critical to building performance. They stop rising damp, protect the structure, and form part of the moisture management strategy that every home depends on. Get it wrong, and you don’t just risk callbacks — you compromise the quality, longevity and liveability of the building itself.
With DPC products installed on 100% of UK sites, this isn’t a niche problem. It’s a national one.
As construction ramps up to meet housing targets and satisfy the new demands of the Building Safety Act, we must go back to basics — and that starts with getting the DPC right, first time.
Raising the Bar: The Visqueen Registered Installer Scheme
This week, Masonry Association Members, Visqueen, have launched a nationwide training and accreditation initiative — the Visqueen Registered Installer Scheme, developed by Visqueen in partnership with the National Masonry Academy and supported by the Construction Industry Training Board.
This new programme is designed to eliminate installation errors by providing:
- CITB-approved, hands-on training for installers
- Third-party assessment to national standards
- Digital verification through our new on-site competency app
- Automatic grant handling for CITB levy-payers
- A live, searchable register of qualified DPC professionals
The one-day course is open to all tradespeople with basic site knowledge and offers both classroom theory and practical experience — focused specifically on the correct installation of Visqueen’s Zedex DPC systems.
Stop the Snags. Build with Confidence.
The quality of DPC installation shouldn’t be left to chance. It should be trained, tested and trusted — just like any other safety-critical element on site.
This scheme will not only help housebuilders meet compliance requirements under the Building Safety Act, but also give contractors and clients peace of mind that they’re working with fully trained, independently verified professionals.
As Eve Livett, CEO of the National Masonry Academy, puts it:
“This is about restoring pride and professionalism in a task that too often goes unrecognised — yet plays a vital role in building safety and performance. We’re setting a new standard for what good looks like, and we’re proud to lead the charge.”
Get Compliant..
The Visqueen Registered Installer Scheme is live. If you’re a contractor, employer or housebuilder, now is the time to register your interest and get booked in.
Together, we can stop the snags — and start building better.
Visit nationalmasonry.academy to learn more.
