Competent Person Scheme for New Roofs and Roof Replacement in the Wirral – What Homeowners Need to Know
If you are planning a new roof, you may have heard the term “Competent Person Scheme” – but many homeowners are unsure what it actually means or why it matters.
In this guide, we explain what the Competent Person Scheme is, how it affects new roof installations and roof replacement projects, and why choosing a registered roofing contractor can save you time, stress, and money.
If you are based in the Wirral or nearby areas such as Heswall, West Kirby, Bebington, Prenton, Birkenhead, Wallasey or Hoylake, this is essential reading before starting any major roofing work.
What Is the Competent Person Scheme?
The Competent Person Scheme is a UK government-authorised scheme that allows approved roofing contractors to self-certify that their work meets current building regulations.
This is particularly important for:
- New roof installations
- Full roof replacements
- Major reroofing projects
Instead of the homeowner applying to the local council building control department, a registered contractor can:
- Carry out compliant roofing work
- Notify building control automatically
- Issue a compliance certificate after completion
This ensures your new roof or replacement roof is legally compliant and correctly recorded.
Does a New Roof or Roof Replacement Need Building Regulations Approval?
Not all roofing work requires building regulations approval, but most new roofs and roof replacement projects do, including:
- Full roof replacements
- Structural roof alterations
- Replacing more than 25% of the roof area
- Upgrading roof insulation
- Changes to ventilation or roof structure
If this work is carried out without proper compliance:
- You may face problems when selling your home
- Solicitors may request retrospective certificates
- You could be required to pay for council inspections or corrective work
- Mortgage lenders may raise concerns
Are There Limits to What Can Be Certified Under the Competent Person Scheme?
Yes. Not all roof replacement work can be self-certified under the scheme.
In general, a roof replacement can only be certified where the new roofing system is within ±15% of the original roof covering weight.
If the proposed materials for your new roof increase or reduce the roof load beyond this threshold, the work may:
- Fall outside the scope of the Competent Person Scheme
- Require full building control involvement
- Need assessment by a qualified structural engineer
A structural engineer will confirm whether the existing roof structure can safely support the change in load and specify any required reinforcements.
For a more detailed explanation, see our dedicated guide:
“Do I Need a Structural Survey on My Roof?”
A professional roofing contractor should identify this during the initial roof survey and advise you before work begins.
How the Competent Person Scheme Helps With New Roofs and Roof Replacements
Using a contractor registered under a Competent Person Scheme offers several important benefits:
✔ Automatic building regulations compliance
✔ No council applications or delays
✔ Official certification for your property records
✔ Faster new roof and roof replacement projects
✔ Peace of mind your roof meets UK standards
Could Non-Compliant Roof Replacement Work Affect Your Home Insurance?
Yes – in many cases it can.
If a new roof or roof replacement is carried out without meeting building regulations or without proper certification, your home insurance provider may:
- Refuse to cover damage related to the roof
- Reduce or invalidate future insurance claims
- Decline cover if issues are discovered during a claim or inspection
Insurance companies expect structural roofing work to be completed by qualified contractors and certified correctly. Without proof of compliance, you could be personally liable for repairs.
Using a roofing contractor registered under a Competent Person Scheme helps protect you from this risk.
Why Choosing a Registered Roofer for Your New Roof Matters
Unfortunately, not all roofing companies are members of a Competent Person Scheme.
Using an unregistered roofer for a new roof or roof replacement may mean:
- You become responsible for building control applications
- Extra fees for inspections
- Delays to your project
- Risk of non-compliant workmanship
- Potential home insurance complications
Always ask:
“Are you registered under a Competent Person Scheme and will I receive certification for my new roof or roof replacement?”
Furber Roofing – New Roof & Roof Replacement Specialists in the Wirral
At Furber Roofing, we ensure all new roof installations and roof replacement projects:
- Meet current UK building regulations
- Are properly documented and certified
- Are completed to recognised industry standards
We provide professional roofing services across the Wirral, including:
- New roofs
- Roof replacements
- Reroofing
- Roof repairs
- Flat roofing
We are:
- NFRC registered roofing contractors
- Fully insured
- Experienced with domestic and commercial roofing projects
- Knowledgeable in Wirral building control requirements
We handle the compliance process for you from start to finish.
When Should You Ask About the Scheme?
You should always ask about Competent Person Scheme registration when:
- Planning a new roof
- Replacing an existing roof
- Upgrading roof insulation
- Buying a property with recent roofing work
- Selling your home
- Comparing roofing quotations
Looking for a New Roof in the Wirral?
If you are considering a new roof and want it completed professionally, safely, and fully compliant with building regulations and home insurance requirements, our team is here to help.
We offer free surveys and no-obligation quotations across Heswall, Bebington, Prenton, Birkenhead, Wallasey, West Kirby and the wider Wirral area.
Furber Roofing – trusted local specialists for new roofs and roof replacement in the Wirral.