How to register with a trade competent person scheme

Registering with a Competent Person Scheme (CPS) is the most efficient way to ensure your work complies with UK Building Regulations while avoiding the cost and delay of local authority inspections. By joining a recognised scheme, you gain the legal authority to "self-certify" your projects, meaning you can notify the local council of completed work yourself and provide your clients with the necessary compliance certificates directly.

Why should you join a scheme?

Under the Building Regulations, many types of construction work must be notified to the local authority. Normally, this involves submitting a notice, paying a fee, and waiting for a building control officer to inspect your work. Membership in a CPS bypasses this hurdle. It demonstrates to customers that you are a vetted professional who meets high industry standards, and it is often a prerequisite for winning domestic contracts.

Common schemes by trade

The scheme you join depends entirely on the type of work you do. Here are the most common organisations in the UK:

Trade	Recognised Schemes
Electrical	NICEIC, NAPIT
Gas Installation	Gas Safe Register (Legal Requirement)
Plumbing & Heating	APHC, CIPHE, HETAS (Solid Fuel)
Windows & Doors	FENSA, Certass
Roofing	NFRC (CompetentRoofer)

How to complete your registration

1. Check your qualifications: Most schemes require you to hold specific NVQs or equivalent certifications. Ensure your trade qualifications are up to date before applying.
2. Submit your application: Visit the website of your chosen scheme and complete the application form. You will need to pay an initial registration fee, which typically ranges from £300 to £600 depending on the trade and scheme.
3. Prepare your paperwork: You must show that your business is professionally managed. Have your public liability insurance certificates, health and safety policy, and calibration certificates for any testing equipment ready for review.
4. Pass the technical assessment: A scheme assessor will visit a site where you are currently working. They will inspect your work to ensure it meets the relevant British Standards and Building Regulations. They will also interview you to test your technical knowledge.
5. Maintain your membership: Once approved, you will be listed on the scheme's public register. You must pay an annual fee and undergo periodic reassessments (usually every year or two) to remain a member.

Pro Tip: Don't book your assessment until you have a project at the "second fix" stage. The assessor needs to see completed work that they can physically test and inspect to verify your competency.

Best practices for success

• Keep your books updated: Ensure you have a record of all completed jobs, as the assessor may ask to see evidence of previous work beyond the site they visit.
• Invest in the latest regulations: Keep a current copy of the relevant "Approved Documents" (e.g., Part P for electrical, Part L for conservation of fuel) on hand. Showing you stay informed goes a long way with assessors.
• Calibrate your tools: If your trade requires testing equipment (like a multi-function tester for electricians), ensure you have a valid calibration certificate. An out-of-date certificate is an automatic fail in many assessments.