Initially introduced within the 2003 Building (Scotland) Act, the scheme allows competent individuals to be appointed Approved Certifiers of Construction or Design, giving them the authority to certify that any work they undertake as part of a building warrant is compliant with building regulations.

SELECT has been a Scheme Provider since 2005 and the re-appointment decision means it can continue in this role to the industry for another six years.

The reappointment decision was made by the Scottish Government’s Building Standards Division (BSD) after a lengthy application process involving intensive data and documentation submission followed by a review by a BSD appointed Certification panel.

Dave Forrester, director of technical services and head of certification at SELECT, said: “We are delighted that the integrity and quality of the services that we have been delivering for the past 15 years will continue to be of service to the Scottish Government and the construction industry as a whole.

“Certification has never been higher on the sector’s agenda and building standards services are key to ensuring that construction schemes can help raise standards throughout the industry and deliver new buildings and improved facilities.

“The reapplication process was comprehensive and detailed and I would like to thank key team members – Training and Development Adviser Malcolm Duncan, Training Manager Jenny Cryans and Technical Administrator Susie Liddle – who helped make it possible.”

Alan Wilson, managing director of SELECT, said: “Certification has multiple benefits, including improved efficiency and productivity and increased peace of mind, with the highest standards upheld.

“Along with other scheme providers, SELECT has been working with the Scottish Government over the summer to address issues raised by the ongoing coronavirus outbreak and create positive outcomes for certification.

“The entire team at The Walled Garden congratulates Dave Forrester and his team who put so much effort and expertise into drafting a successful application which will allow us to continue to serve the sector in Scotland.”

The Building Standards Division manages the Certification Register, which is the only authoritative source for approved bodies and certifiers. Members of the scheme appear on this register, which is used by clients and local authorities.

To become an Approved Certifier, an individual must be a member of an approved scheme and meet rigorous standards agreed with the BSD. They must also be able to demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of building regulations.

Other certifier scheme providers include SNIPEF, the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, BRE Global Ltd, Structural Engineers Registration and Certsure (NICEIC).