12 Best Facility Maintenance Certification in 2024

Facility maintenance management certifications signifies a formal recognition of an individual’s expertise in various aspects of facility management. These are the top 12 facilities maintenance certifications that help professionals demonstrate excellence and serve as a testament to proficiency in facilities maintenance management.

Pursuing certification is always a great step toward advancing the career as a facility manager and demonstrating commitment to develop expertise and apply it for business benefit. So, a facility management certification in maintenance stands as a prestigious achievement.

Depending on experience and area of specialization in the field, you can take up building maintenance certifications that cover right from entry-level, and intermediate to advanced knowledge. From newcomers eager to make their mark to seasoned veterans aiming to refine their skills, these certifications from esteemed organizations like IFMA, ProFMI, AFE, and others offer pathways around different expertise levels and specializations.

These 12 certifications that we are going to discuss stand as comprehensive and globally recognized programs that equip facility managers with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their roles. While empowering facility management professionals, they set a high standard for the industry.

12 Best Facility Maintenance Certification

Explore this list of the best certifications in facility maintenance. It will bolster the profile of individual facilities maintenance professionals and create an opportunity for organizations to have the best facility maintenance team. Since the certification offering bodies can introduce changes to these programs and cost structures, for the latest updates and information, it is recommended to visit their official websites.

1. Facility Management Professional (FMP)

The Facility Management Professional (FMP) certification offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is a knowledge-based credential designed for facility management professionals and industry suppliers. Helping you master the fundamentals of facilities managementIt, it serves as a foundational certification demonstrating a solid understanding of core competencies in facility management.

FMP acts as a springboard for obtaining certification, providing a customizable training program that can be completed in approximately 12 months. Offering a comprehensive curriculum to meet individual career goals, the certification is ideal for entry-level and transitioning facility management professionals.

Features:

• Customizable Training: Candidates can tailor their training to build specific knowledge required for their career objectives.
• Four Modules: The certification program consists of four modules covering essential topics vital for employers: Operations and Maintenance, Finance and Business, Leadership and Strategy, and Project Management.
• No Experience Requirement: There is no specific work experience required to enroll in the FMP certification program.
• Renewal: Renewal of the certification is required every two years through Continuing Educational Units (CEU) or Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
• Accreditation: The FMP certification is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), ensuring its credibility and industry recognition.
• Online Exam: To earn the FMP credential, individuals must pass all four final assessments within the set time limit and submit their FMP application.
• Cost:

Full Member: Individual Course – 525 USD, 4 Course Bundle – 1650 USD

Standard: Individual Course – 650 USD, 4 Course Bundle – 1990 USD

2. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Encountering CFM you may think ‘what is CFM certification?’ Well, the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) certification is a globally recognized credential offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). It is designed to validate expertise in the field of facility management. The aspirant has to pass an exam covering 11 competencies that constitute the facility management body of knowledge.

CFM sets the industry standard for facility managers by ensuring that they possess the perfect knowledge and competence of the facility management domain.

Features:

• Comprehensive Exam: Candidates must pass a rigorous exam covering 11 core competencies in facility management.
• Industry Recognition: The CFM certification is globally recognized, signifying high levels of proficiency in the field.
• 11 Core Competencies: The certification covers competencies such as Communication, Facility Information Management, Technology Management, Finance and Business, Leadership and Strategy, Occupancy and Human Factors, Operations and Maintenance, Performance and Quality, Project Management, Real Estate, Risk Management, and Sustainability.
• Intermediate Level Certification: The CFM credential is classified as an intermediate level certification, indicating a certain level of expertise in facility management practices.
• Career Advancement: Achieving the CFM certification can open doors to career advancement opportunities within the facility management industry.
• Cost: Members – 341 USD to 550 USD, Non-members – 505 USD to 815 USD

3. Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP)

The Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP) certification, offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), is an assessment-based certificate program that focuses on sustainability practices in facility management. It equips facility managers with the knowledge and skills to make data-driven decisions and implement sustainable practices within their facilities.

SFP is an evaluation-based certificate program that allows facility managers to demonstrate their expertise in sustainable facility management practices. By earning the SFP credential, professionals can impact their organization’s economic, environmental, and social bottom lines positively.

Features:

• Specialty Credential: The SFP certification delivers a specialty credential in sustainability, emphasizing efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable practices.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers key areas such as water resources, materials, quality, workplace management, indoor environmental quality, waste management, and site concerns.
• Impactful Practices: SFPs learn to enhance facility efficiency, streamline building operations, and execute initiatives that optimize costs while positively impacting the community and organization’s triple bottom line.
• Recognition and Reputation: Earning the SFP certification allows facility managers to gain recognition and credibility as knowledgeable champions of sustainability within their workplace and communities.
• Cost: IFMA Member – 1,595 USD for IFMA Non-members – 1,895 USD.

4. Professional Facility Management Institute (ProFMI) Certification

The Professional Facility Management Institute (ProFMI) Certification is designed to address the real-world challenges, dilemmas, and difficulties faced by facility managers, providing a career-applicable program.

ProFMI defines the essential knowledge required for facility managers to succeed, offers a robust training program to develop skills in facility management, by awarding a global credential to recognize their achievements.

Features:

• Global Standard: Aligning with the ISO 41000 series of FM standards and the U.S. Federal Buildings Personnel Training Act (FBPTA), ProFMI sets the global standard for facility management knowledge.
• Comprehensive Training: Delivers comprehensive training in 19 functional FM knowledge areas and five cross-functional competencies.
• Customizable Learning: With four learning options available, the ProFMI Credential Program can be tailored to fit various learning styles, making it accessible and adaptable for professionals at any stage of their careers.
• Renewal Requirements: To maintain the ProFMI credential, holders must renew it every three years by earning a minimum of 45 contact hours of continuing education related to the FM profession.
• Cost: Self-Study Credential Program – 1695 USD (plus applicable taxes), ProFM’s Coached Self-Study program – 1795 USD (plus applicable taxes).

5. Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

The Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) certification, offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE), is a prestigious credential designed for plant and facilities maintenance professionals. With it, professionals can testify their expertise in addressing complex maintenance issues and staying abreast of evolving techniques and technologies in the field. By earning the CPMM credential, individuals can demonstrate their proficiency in plant and facilities maintenance management.

Features:

• Diverse Disciplines: The CPMM testing covers multiple disciplines including Preventative Maintenance, Computerized Maintenance Management, Total Productive Management, Return On Investment, and WorkFlow Planning and Scheduling.
• Preventative Maintenance: Focuses on optimizing maintenance programs to keep trouble calls manageable and helps identify equipment that directly impacts facility operations.
• Return on Investment (ROI): Emphasizes understanding the financial implications of maintenance decisions, evaluating investments like variable frequency drives for energy savings, and ensuring quick payback periods.
• Planning and Scheduling: Underscores the importance of effective planning and scheduling in maintenance operations, often an underutilized aspect critical for efficient facility management.
• Cost: AFE Members – 825 USD and Non-members 1125 USD

6. Certified Plant Engineer (CPE)

The Certified Plant Engineer (CPE) certification, offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE), is a standard of knowledge for all plant engineers. It targets specific areas of expertise in various fields such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, OSHA, HVAC, and Economics Management.

Features:

• Standard of Knowledge: The CPE program establishes a benchmark for plant engineers, covering a wide range of disciplines to ensure a comprehensive understanding across different areas, including safety and health in maintenance operations.
• Unified Team: Having certified maintenance managers assures a level of job understanding across the board, creating a unified team capable of addressing challenges in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
• Renewal Requirements: The CPE certification is valid for three years and requires individuals to earn a minimum number of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain their certification. Renewal credits can be earned through professional development seminars, workshops, and continuous employment in the plant/facilities field.
• Eligibility: There are two categories for CPE Certification – Category A requires four years in management in plant/facility engineering or architecture, while Category B requires four years of experience as a registered Professional Engineer.
• Cost: Members – 825 USD, Non-members – 1125 USD.

7. Facilities Management Administrator (FMA)

The Facilities Management Administrator (FMA) certification, offered by the Building Owners and Managers Institute International (BOMI) aims to develop effective and knowledgeable facilities professionals who can strategically manage facilities to support staff and align with organizational objectives.

The certification equips individuals with valuable skills in strategic planning, project management, corporate finance, capital investment, and physical asset management. Whether an individual is new to facilities management or an experienced professional seeking to maximize productivity in the work environment, the FMA program offers relevant facility maintenance training and knowledge.

Features:

• Strategic Contribution: The FMA certification positions professionals as strategic contributors within their organizations.
• Skill Development: Participants in the FMA program gain expertise in strategic planning, project management, corporate finance, and physical asset management, imparting them skills to manage facilities efficiently.
• Timely Issues: The program covers new facilities technologies, environmental health, technician safety, and other contemporary topics relevant to modern facility management practices.
• Participation Flexibility: The FMA program caters to individuals at various career stages, right from novices to experienced managers or related professionals. They have to take up multiple courses across topics around facilities administration.
• Cost: Check the price sheet

8. Facilities Management Certificate (FMC)

The Facilities Management Certificate (FMC) certification is a comprehensive program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage and maintain facilities at peak performance levels. It offers an in-depth and structured curriculum that focuses on applying best practices for high-performance facility management.

Taking a project-focused, real-world approach, the certification allows participants to add immediate value and earn their certificate as they work. The program covers a wide range of topics crucial for effective facility management.

Features:

• Comprehensive Curriculum: The FMC certification provides participants with a structured program that covers essential areas such as Operations and Maintenance, Leadership and Strategy, Facilities Project Management, Emergency Preparedness, Facility Condition and Assessment, Lifecycle Costing, Sustainability and Energy Management, Quality Improvement for Organizations, Finance and Business, Technology, and Organizational Change Management.
• Project-Based Learning: Participants engage in applied projects that help develop a portfolio of working tools and experience.
• Mentorship: Each participant is assigned a mentor with industry experience to guide them through the facilities management courses, align program content with daily operations, and provide immediate answers to questions.
• Flexible Learning: The program offers self-paced online courses and learning, allowing individuals to start anytime and receive a custom schedule based on the experiences of previous participants.
• Certification Benefits: Upon successful completion of all courses and exams, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of managing cost-effective facilities at peak performance levels.
• Cost: Check the price sheet

9. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) offers a range of professional certifications that validate specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities in the HVAC&R industry.

ASHRAE certifications are designed to validate competency in various areas of HVAC&R, ensuring professionals have the necessary expertise to lead, plan, coordinate, and manage tasks effectively. These certifications cover a wide range of specialties within the industry, including commissioning, building energy assessment, energy modeling, high-performance building design, healthcare facility design, HVAC system design, and operations & performance management.

Features:

• Specialized Knowledge: ASHRAE certifications provide specialized knowledge and skills in specific areas of HVAC&R, and enhance the credibility and recognition of the professional within the industry.
• Career Development: Achieving an ASHRAE certification can lead to career advancement opportunities as it helps demonstrate expertise and competency to employers and clients.
• Renewable Certification: Each certification is renewable every three years, so that professionals stay current with industry standards and practices.
• Digital Badging: ASHRAE offers digital badging for certified professionals to showcase their achievements and expertise in the field.
• Industry Recognition: ASHRAE certifications are widely recognized in the industry, helping professionals stand out among their peers and demonstrate a high level of competence.
• Cost: Members – 235 USD to 395 USD, Non-members – 595 USD.

10 U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Certifications

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) certifications provide individuals with designations, digital certificates, and wordmarks to showcase their expertise in green building practices. These certifications cover a variety of areas within the sustainability and environmental sector, including LEED Green Rater, Green Classroom Professional, TRUE Advisor, EDGE Expert, Parksmart Advisor, and more.

Features:

• LEED Certification: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a widely used green building rating system that offers a framework for creating healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.
• Specialized Certifications: USGBC certifications cover a range of specialized areas such as TRUE (zero waste), EDGE (sustainable building design), Parksmart (sustainable parking facilities).
• Professional Development: USGBC certifications add value to professional credentials, open doors to new job opportunities, and thus help them advance careers in the green building industry.
• Continuing Education: Certified professionals must earn continuing education hours within specific timeframes to maintain their credentials, so that they stay updated on the latest industry trends and practices.
• Assistance for Exam Preparation: USGBC provides study materials, exam prep resources, and exam registration options to help individuals prepare for and successfully pass certification exams.
• Cost:

LEED Green Associate: 100 USD to 595 USD

LEED Building Design and Construction: 4,500 USD to 5,600 USD

LEED Volume Program – Varies

LEED Residential: 125 USD to 300 USD

11. Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA)

The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) offers a variety of certifications and programs that cater to professionals in the commercial real estate industry. So, we see the certification covering a range of areas such as property management, building systems, accounting, reporting, contract management, sustainability, and energy efficiency.

Features:

• Certified Manager of Commercial Properties (CMCP): This certification is tailored for early-career property professionals seeking to validate their industry knowledge and advance their careers in commercial real estate.
• BOMA BEST Certification Program: BOMA BEST offers certifications and building management tools that focus on sustainability, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and low-carbon performance for existing buildings. It provides a roadmap for continual improvement and a clear path from Bronze to Platinum certification levels.
• Educational Opportunities: BOMA International and its affiliates offer a wide range of educational programs, courses, and designations to enhance organizational excellence and professional development in commercial real estate.
• Networking and Events: BOMA provides opportunities for professionals to make connections, gain insights into industry trends, and participate in conferences, meetings, and courses to stay updated on the latest developments in commercial real estate.
• Continuing Education: The certification offers opportunities to earn Continuing Education (CE) credits, ensuring professionals stay current with industry standards and best practices.
• Cost: Members – 495 USD, Non-members – 695 USD.

12. Certified Professional Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

Mainly offered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE), The Certified Professional Maintenance Manager (CPMM) certification is designed for facilities directors and maintenance managers who aim to enhance their competencies in maintenance management. The CPMM certification signifies that an individual is a qualified expert capable of effectively maintaining and operating complex building and facility systems.

Features:

• Comprehensive Training: The CPMM program covers a wide range of topics essential for maintenance managers, including Preventative Maintenance, Workflow Planning and Scheduling, Computerized Maintenance Management, Investment Returns, and Total Productive Management.
• Diverse Skill Set: By mastering disciplines like Preventative Maintenance, Return on Investment (ROI), and Planning and Scheduling, CPMM holders demonstrate a well-rounded managerial skill set.
• Professional Development: The CPMM certification enhances job understanding across various areas, enabling professionals to lead unified teams capable of efficiently addressing facility requirements.
• Career Advancement: Achieving the CPMM certification can lead to career advancement opportunities and help them showcase expertise in maintenance management and differentiate in the industry.
• Renewal Process: The CPMM certification is valid for three years, requiring professionals to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through ongoing involvement in the field or professional activities to maintain their designation.
• Cost: Members – 825 USD, Non-members – 1125.

To Wrap up

These were the top certifications that facilities management professionals must pursue to boost their career and add value to their business.

Since all maintenance certification programs discussed above are unique in their own terms, first an assessment of one’s own facilities maintenance management skills and experience must be made. Based on the assessment, identify the certification that will prove viable to your role and help you have a flourishing career.

As a business owner planning to impart necessary skills to your facility team members, offer them an opportunity to pursue the certification that will add value to your business through the learnings secured from the course.