What Can (and Can’t) Be Registered on a Glazing CPS
6th February 2024 - By Danelle Vanstone
In the world of domestic glazing, staying informed about the regulatory landscape is crucial for installers. Competent Person Schemes offer a streamlined way to self-certify compliance with Building Regulations, saving time and money for both installers and homeowners. But what work can actually be registered under these schemes? This blog will look at the specifics to ensure you’re on the right track.
Why Register Work with a Competent Person Scheme?
Competent Person Schemes like Certass allow installers to self-certify that their work meets local Building Regulations. This process eliminates the need for a building notice or local authority inspection. By aligning with such schemes, tradespeople not only validate their capability but also contribute to elevating the industry’s standards. Once work is completed, it’s registered with Certass, which then notifies the local authority, culminating in the issuance of a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate (other names for this certificate can include: BRCC, FENSA certificate, or Building Control Certificate.)
Eligible Work for Registration:
Understanding what qualifies for registration is essential. The scheme focuses on the ‘replacement’ aspect of windows and doors within the thermal envelope of a property. This means if there was previously a window or door acting as a barrier between the interior and the exterior, its replacement qualifies for registration. It’s important to note that this applies to existing dwellings, not new constructions or extensions, which are handled through building control.
What cannot Be Registered:
Certain installations do not fall under the Competent Person Scheme, including:
- Porches and conservatories
- Non-thermal envelope installations like garages or sheds
- Enlarged openings
- New builds and specific extensions
- Repairs to existing windows
- Commercial and local authority housing installations (Certass has separate registration for these; please get in touch for more information.)
Replacement vs. Repair:
The line between a replacement and a repair can sometimes blur. For clarity:
- Replacing just the glazing unit or a locking mechanism constitutes a repair and is not registerable.
- Installing a complete unit (frame and glazing) within an existing frame is considered a replacement and qualifies for registration.
Support from Certass:
For scenarios that might seem complex or for installations outside the domestic sphere, Certass provides additional schemes like Non-Domestic and Local Authority Schemes. We also offer a Certass Quality Assured Workmanship scheme, for new builds and repairs, ensuring comprehensive support for installers.
Navigating the specifics of what can and can’t be registered under a Competent Person scheme is crucial for domestic glazing installers. By understanding these guidelines, you can ensure compliance, streamline your workflow, and provide added value to your clients. If ever in doubt, reaching out to Certass for guidance can clarify any uncertainties, ensuring your installations meet the required standards.