Building standards - compliance plan manager role: development of scope

Appendix 4 Comparison to the Republic of Ireland

1. In 2014, the Republic of Ireland introduced new legislation with substantial new procedures for the control of building activity. The new regulations were introduced to improve evidence of compliance with building standards in the construction industry. Statutory certification applies to new dwellings^[21], extensions to dwellings with a floor area greater than 40 sq. m. and buildings/works that require a fire certificate.

2. Research carried out by Optimal Economics in 2020 examined the regime in more detail, which enables points of comparison to be made with the proposed CPM role in Scotland.

3. Notably, the regulations introduced the role of Assigned Certifier and requires that they be a registered architect, building surveyor or chartered engineer.

4. Among other requirements, a notice of assignment of a person to inspect and certify work is signed by the building owner and confirms that they are satisfied the Assigned Certifier is appropriately registered and competent to inspect and certify the building work.

5. A Certificate of Compliance signed by the Assigned Certifier confirms they will inspect the works, coordinate the inspections of others and certify the works for compliance with the building regulations. The Assigned Certifier must risk assess the project to determine the key stages and elements of work to inspect during construction. They must also prepare an inspection plan, with records of inspections maintained and sufficient to identify the work inspected and any non-compliance.

6. On completion of a project, the Assigned Certifier and builder sign a Certificate of Compliance on Completion (CCC) to confirm compliance and submitted to the building control authority for validation. The certificate must be validated before a building may be opened, used or occupied.

7. A key difference between the proposed CPM and the Assigned Certifier in the Republic of Ireland rests on liability. In the Scottish model, the Relevant Person will continue to hold ultimately liability, whilst in the Republic of Ireland, this falls to the Assigned Certifier.