Building standards - Futures Board Programme: workstream information

Certification strategy workstream

Purpose and approach 

The certification strategy workstream aims to:

• increase the number of suitably qualified professionals and tradespeople delivering work through certification schemes
• increase the use of certification schemes so their benefits apply to more projects across Scotland
• expand the range of certification schemes, particularly for safety-critical elements of construction
• support the delivery of higher standards of buildings in Scotland

Progress 

A review of certification is being taken forward. This is focused on identifying and supporting the certification scheme providers to strengthen and grow their schemes as well as identifying and making changes that will improve compliance with the building regulations.  

Certification of design and construction was introduced in the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 and is a means of demonstrating compliance with the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2024. It is based on the principle that suitably qualified and experienced building professionals and tradespeople can confirm that specified works comply with building regulations. 

Scheme providers will be required to apply for re-appointment during 2026. This process will begin following audit of their schemes, as a requirement under the operating framework. 

To support the delivery of the certification strategy, a working group has been established. Its first meeting took place on 19 June 2024, at which the terms of reference was agreed. 

Ongoing work

Next steps include:

• implement findings from fundamental review of certification research. Working with Scottish Futures Trust (SFT) and Pye Tait Consulting, this project highlighted the value of certification to the building standards system but acknowledged the opportunity to strengthen this. An action plan has been created and areas for improvement have been ranked in order of priority. Continued joint working with stakeholders, scheme providers and verifiers will be required
• taking forward further work to support the research undertaken on certification fees, including whether the current approach remains effective
• development of a new certification register. Discovery on the requirements for a new register is being undertaken. This will inform the delivery stage of the work
• scheme provider audits and re-appointment process
• work with UK government colleagues to examine how a potential contractor licensing scheme might apply in Scotland and its relationship with certification