Keep calm – I’m an Approved Certifier!

What is an approved certifier?

Approved Certifiers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who operate under, and are registered by, scheme providers such as SNIPEF. With approval from the Scottish Government, the schemes allow individuals to self-certify work that is subject to a Building Warrant, providing a quicker alternative to using local authority building standards inspectors.

There are different types of certification schemes which fall under Design or Construction. These include Certification of Design (building structures), Certification of Design (section 6 – Energy) for Domestic buildings, Certification of Design (section 6 – Energy) for Non-Domestic buildings, Certification of Construction (Electrical Installations to BS7671) and Certification of Construction (Drainage, Heating and Plumbing).

What are the benefits of using an approved certifier?

Certain criteria must be met to become an approved certifier. Firstly, the approved body must have public liability insurance of at least £2 million (and employer’s liability if appropriate). Approved certifiers are required to hold a Water Byelaws/Regulation qualification and sit a Building Standards Training Course. This course must be refreshed every three years to keep up with the latest changes in the industry.

This means approved certifiers are constantly kept up to date with new developments and knowledge to be able to sign off certificates with ease and peace of mind.

As a customer you are assured by using an approved certifier that works completed on your property will comply with current building regulations and carried out by fully trained and competent professionals.

What are some of the benefits of becoming an approved certifier?

There are many benefits of becoming an approved certifier such as quick and easy handling of completion certificates, discounts on building warrant application fees, use of the approved certifier logo and more. By joining the scheme, approved certifiers save valuable time and money by self-certifying work that is subject to a Building Warrant.

Kevin Stewart, the Scottish Government Minister for Local government, Housing and Planning stated: “The use of certificates of construction would have significant value at this time where there is a need and requirement to actively manage the number of people on site to reduce the transmission of Covid-19. As electrical, drainage, heating and plumbing work can be certified by qualified building professionals, their increased use will reduce the need for building standards inspection visits.”

For more information please go to www.sbsc.uk.net