What are the new Mandatory Technical Competencies (MTC) requirements?
The MTC framework sets out the minimum standards that roofing businesses and their competent installers need to meet when carrying out notifiable work under a Competent Person Scheme. The aim is simple: to make sure work is carried out safely, competently and in line with the Building Regulations.
Why has this been introduced?
The framework forms part of the Building Safety Regulator's drive to improve standards across the construction industry following the Building Safety Act 2022. It provides a consistent way of assessing competence across different trades and Competent Person Schemes.
Does this mean I need to change the way I work?
For many established roofing contractors, probably not by much. If you already work to recognised industry standards, keep good records and invest in training, you're likely to have many of the requirements in place already.
The main focus is on being able to demonstrate your competence with evidence of your qualifications, skills, knowledge and experience.
Who needs to be assessed?
Your business must nominate competent individuals (Nominated Competent Persons) who are responsible for self-certifying the roofing work you carry out as compliant with Building Regulations. Those individuals need the right combination of skills, knowledge, qualifications, experience and ongoing professional development (CPD).
Depending on the size of your business, that might be the business owner, site supervisor or another member of your team.
Do all my employees have to be fully qualified?
No. Labourers, apprentices and trainees can still work on site, but they must be supervised by a competent individual who takes responsibility for ensuring the work complies with Building Regulations.
Will I need regular reassessment?
Yes, your Nominated Competent Person must have their competence revalidated every five years.
What records should my business keep?
Good record keeping is now more important than ever. Your business should keep records such as:
- Self-certified work
- Qualifications and CPD
- Installation records
- Survey information
- Certificates and compliance documents
- Customer handover information
Having organised records makes assessments much smoother and helps demonstrate compliance.
What happens if I use subcontractors?
You can still subcontract work, but responsibility stays with your business. You'll need a formal subcontract agreement and must ensure everyone working on the project is competent, records are maintained and the work is correctly notified.
Is Continuing Professional Development (CPD) now mandatory?
Yes. Competence isn't just about qualifications gained years ago. The framework expects competent individuals to keep their knowledge up to date through ongoing training and professional development.
Do I need specific insurance?
Yes. Businesses are expected to hold appropriate insurance for the work they undertake, including at least £2 million Public Liability Insurance. Professional Indemnity Insurance is also recommended where design work is carried out.
Will my business still be able to self-certify work?
Yes. Businesses have up to two years from the launch of the MTCs to ensure that their Nominated Competent Person can provide evidence.
How will my competence be assessed?
We are implementing a new competence management platform, Certchain. All Nominated Competent Persons in the Scheme will be issued with an account. You will then have up until your renewal date to upload qualification certificates, or other supportive evidence of your skill, knowledge and experience that proves you are competent to self-certify.
If you don’t have this information straight away, don’t worry! You have up to two years to complete qualifications, or an assessment to demonstrate your skills.
What will assessors be looking for?
Assessments are likely to include:
- Evidence of technical competence
- On-site workmanship
- Business processes
- Record keeping
- Health and safety arrangements
- Customer documentation
- Compliance with Building Regulations
The aim is to verify that your business consistently delivers compliant work.
Does this affect customer service too?
Yes. The framework also places importance on fair and transparent dealings with customers, including clear quotations, accurate information, complaint handling and providing appropriate documentation at handover.