Approved Contractor: FAQs

What is an approved contractor? 

For the purposes of the water fittings regulations/byelaws an approved contractor, sometimes referred to as an approved plumber, is a member of one of the six approved contractor schemes. 

Membership is voluntary rather than mandatory. Some schemes operate nationally and others in defined areas. 

Only those with qualifications recognised by that scheme, as demonstrating competency to install in compliance with the water fittings regulations/byelaws, and suitable liability insurance can join a scheme.  

Using an approved contractor means the plumbing work they undertake should be compliant with the water fittings regulations, byelaws in Scotland, but if not, the certificate of compliance, sometimes called a work completed certificate, they issue on completion can be used as a legal defence. 

The water fittings regulations/byelaws include some notification exemptions for approved contractors, where this is the case, they do not have to provide advanced notification although it should be encouraged.

For further information about each, including how to join and the benefits of membership and using and approved contractor please contact the schemes or refer to the WaterSafe website.