Georgia Qualified Water Loss Auditor (QWLA) Certification Program

In 2015, Georgia EPD created a program for individuals to become qualified and competent to sign off on required water audits in the state of Georgia. This QWLA certification program is currently administered by the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP) with oversight by EPD. Minimum requirements for auditors include:

1. Candidates are required to complete the four-hour “Basic Water Loss & Auditing” class as a prerequisite to the full QWLA Certification Class & Exam.
2. Candidates must complete the 16-hour QWLA Certification class as a prerequisite to taking the exam.
3. Candidates must pass the QWLA exam with a minimum score of 70%. The exam includes multiple choice and short answer  questions and a practical audit.
   

It is suggested that candidates first have experience working as a team member preparing required data and supporting documents needed to complete a water audit. Experience with Microsoft Excel is essential as supporting documents and AWWA FWAS are based on this software platform.

Beginning in January 2025, QWLA Certifications will operate on a three-year continuing education cycle. Continuing education requirement can be met by:

1. Preparing or validating at least two AWWA FWAS current version water audits, and
2. Completion of four (4) hours of water loss control or water auditing training.
   

Upcoming Training classes:

GAWP utilizes trained and certified instructors to deliver QWLA training. Training classes are scheduled to coincide with the March 1st due date for audits in the state of Georgia. Currently, all training classes are virtual through the Zoom platform. Exams are given in person only with the only location for exams being the GAWP Headquarters in Marietta. Registration for these classes is done through the GAWP website under the "Events" Tab. Registration for these classes opens August 1st (or earlier) for of each year. 

• Basic Water Loss & Auditing classes for this training cycle are scheduled for October 17, 2024 and November 14, 2024. 
  

• QWLA Certification & Exam classes for this training cycle are scheduled for January 6-10, 2025 and January 27-31, 2025.

For questions about the QWLA Certification Program or Water Audits in Georgia, contact Jim Poff at jpoff@gawp.org