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What does Competent Person Scheme (CPS) mean?

A Competent Person Scheme (CPS) allows registered installers to carry out certain types of building work and self-certify that the work complies with Building Regulations, without the homeowner having to submit a separate application to Local Authority Building Control.

Many types of building work must be notified to a Building Control Body, such as your local authority or an approved building inspector. However, if the work is completed by an installer who is registered with a recognised Competent Person Scheme, they can certify the work themselves and notify the relevant authorities on your behalf.

For replacement windows and doors, schemes such as FENSA, CERTASS, and Assure allow registered installers to self-certify that the installation complies with current Building Regulations.

The homeowner will typically receive a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate from the relevant scheme as evidence that the work has been properly notified and certified.

Please note: A Building Regulations Compliance Certificate is separate from an Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG). The compliance certificate confirms that the installation meets Building Regulations requirements, whereas the IBG provides protection if the installer ceases trading and can no longer honour their written guarantee.