What is the Competent Person Scheme

Why should you become a ‘Competent Person?’ What are the benefits to you and your customers?

Competent Person Schemes (CPS) were introduced by the UK Government in 2002. Under the scheme, an installer or building firm registered with a scheme is able to self-certify that work complies with Building Regulations rather than having to submit a building notice or use an approved inspector.

By becoming a Competent Person, your business and your customers will reap a number of benefits:

Self-certification negates the need to submit building notices, or arrange for a local authority inspections or private approved building inspector to check work carried out. This will also negate their associated fees and time delays.

Self-certification promotes training and competence within the building industry.

Self-certification can enhance compliance with Building Regulations requirements.

Joining an authorised scheme proves to potential customers that you are competent and compliant with all necessary regulations.

If you are registered with one of the schemes, you will be added to the Competent Persons Register, making it easy for a potential customer to find your details. Alternatively, if a customer is searching for a domestic electrician, a separate register has been set up specifically for electricians. In addition, consumers will easily be able to identify an electrician registered as a Competent Person as they have access to a joint logo.

A Competent Person must be registered with a scheme approved by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DGLG). Schemes are available for a wide range of building work, including:

• Plumbing, heating and water supply installations
• Electrical installations
• Window and door installations
• Roofing
• Cavity insulation

You may recognise certain schemes, such as Fensa, National Federation of Roofing Contractors, HETAS and NICEIC. A full list can be found on the Competent Persons Register website.

What do you have to do to become a ‘Competent Person’?

If you work in the building trade as an installer, you can join a Competent Person Scheme in order to self-certify certain types of building work. However, you must meet its Minimum Technical Competence (MTC) requirements in order to be registered. This is to ensure that standards remain high, compliance with Building Regulations are met and consumers are able to fully trust in a Competent Person’s abilities.

Want to know more?

Based in Basildon, Gas Training & Assessment is a small, dedicated training centre that has been providing exceptional gas, electrical, plumbing, heating and renewable energy courses for over fifteen years. Our courses will ensure that your work meets the minimum standards required to register on a Competent Person Scheme.

We are also more than happy to discuss any questions or queries you may have about registering as a Competent Person. Simply call us on 01268 727797 to speak to member of our team.