Building regs and MCS installs(or not)

[lizzieuk1]

Feel I should know the answer already but can't seem to settle on one! 

 

Ideally, wanting to do our own ufh and solar install and, if possible, source the ashp/cylinder etc and get local plumber/sparky to install, sign-off that and necessary solar bits.

My confusion lies with getting our bc sign-off if the ashp & solar isn't mcs installed.

Our last builds we had mcs installs and handed certs to bc so all easy but, far more costly for our own home build that we need to budget far harder on!

What are the bc 'hoops' required for that sign-off without mcs certs?

[JohnMo]

BC not interested in MCS for solar installation as long as you have the correct electrical certificate.

 

ASHP, not sure. The MCS noise certificate can be completed by anyone. You have express planning so any rules around permitted development aren't applicable. So the only thing they should be interested in is a noise certificate.

[kandgmitchell]

Don't think BC are concerned about noise either - it's more about thermal efficiency and heating controls in Part L. The only reference is to selecting fans and compressors "to minimise disturbance to neighbours whilst remaining in compliance with planning requirements". So if you have planning approval for the location then I can't see why BC would ask for a "noise certificate" - there are no standards I can find in the Approved Document to measure against. 

[SteamyTea]

Regarding the PV, Building Control may also want structural calculations i.e. wind and snow loadings.

If a new build  then the Structural Engineer should be able to supply the right paperwork.

[JohnMo]

59 minutes ago, SteamyTea said:

Building Control may also want structural calculations i.e. wind and snow loadings

Keep forgetting in England you don't seem to need a structural design certificate, as you do in Scotland - the structural engineer covers this by default by default.

[SteamyTea]

19 minutes ago, JohnMo said:

Keep forgetting in England

The English make a simple job complicated.

[MikeSharp01]

You will find exporting excess PV difficult if it is not an MCS certified install.

[JohnMo]

15 minutes ago, MikeSharp01 said:

You will find exporting excess PV difficult if it is not an MCS certified install.

Unless you go to Octopus, then with your documents (electric certificate, structural drawings and G98 etc) and giving them £250. Way cheaper than the MCS install premium / tax.