What is an assigned certifier?

How it works in Ireland

Since March 2014 a new house on the standard route needs a named, registered professional to take responsibility for inspecting the build and certifying compliance. That person is the assigned certifier. Ask them to list their inspection stages before you appoint them, and agree scope, fees and what happens if they leave in writing.

The assigned certifier is separate from the design certifier, who certifies the design before work starts, and from the builder, who signs the completion certificate alongside them. In a small project one professional can sometimes fill more than one role; the regulations set who is eligible and the guide explains how to check.

Their signature is evidence that the work was inspected. It is not a transfer of your responsibility. The owner, builder and designer remain responsible for compliance, and a certifier’s inspection does not replace snagging or your lender’s own checks.

If you change your assigned certifier or builder after filing, notify the building control authority within 14 days, with the new notice of assignment and undertakings.

At completion the certifier and builder sign the certificate of compliance on completion. On the standard route it must be lodged and on the register before anyone opens, occupies or uses the house.

A common mistake

Appointing the certifier after filing, or at the last minute. On the standard route the certifier must be chosen and willing to sign before the commencement notice goes in, and a certifier who joins late cannot truthfully certify work already covered up. Appoint early, agree the inspection stages and book them as the build reaches each one.