Blog (2025)

This is the first in a series of CPD-related blogs, with each focusing on a specific section of the SER CPD return process. It provides information on the principles behind the activity notepad, why we recommend you use it, and advice to help you avoid issues that some Certifiers have found with it when completing their SER CPD return.

The window for completing SER CPD returns for 2025 opens on 1st January 2026. All Approved Certifiers who became members of the Scheme before 1st July 2025 are required to submit a CPD return for the 2025 calendar year. This blog covers importing activities from the CPD Notepad and uploading your IStructE & ICE returns as part of your SER return.

This is the penultimate part in our series of blogs designed to help you complete your SER CPD return with the minimum of difficulty. This blog contains information relating to the main page of the SER CPD return process: Review, Activities and Intentions.

This blog provides a quick step by step guide to completing a satisfactory SER CPD return. If you don't have time to look at anything else, check this blog!

SER has had a number of queries recently regarding how the signing of certificates was recorded prior to the introduction of the electronic signing functionality in October 2021.

CPD returns for the calendar year 2025 are due by 31st March 2026.

SER Approved Bodies will from time to time be commissioned to certify a project for which the Client will require confidentiality as a result of security considerations. This blog covers the points to be considered in these circumstances.

Approved Certifiers of Design who are members of the SER Scheme for Certification are often commissioned to certify work designed by Engineering practices who are not members of the Scheme and do not directly employ an Approved Certifier.

From another Approved Body and/or Approved Certifier - advice for Approved Certifiers and Approved Bodies

For projects including the conversion of an attic space in dwellings to form additional accommodation, Certifiers need to be satisfied that the risk assessment of the altered building considers the appropriate risk group, and ensure that any requirements for conversions have been applied accordingly.