MCS Installer Standards
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is an independent scheme that certifies microgeneration products and installers in accordance with a set of quality standards. It is designed to provide a level of protection and assurance to consumers as well as a sign of quality to be boasted by MCS Installers.
The MCS Scheme provides the following benefits;
* The Feed In Tariffs
* The Renewable Heat Incentive
* Local Authority Grant Funding
* SAP Ratings for dwellings recognises MCS Products when determining which products are eligible for inclusion in the rating.
* The code for sustainable homes, which is a mandatory requirement for all newly built homes, is open for the use of MCS Technologies to achieve the mininmum rating.
* The Green Deal (TBC)
All products and installers certified under the MCS are able to use the MCS mark in their advertising and promotions, their details will be listed on the MCS website for consumers to view, as well as on the MCS Directory www.mcsdirectory.co.uk if chosen.
The scope of the MCS Scheme is the supply, design, installation, commissioning and handover of MCS technologies.
An inspection is undertaken at the installers place of work and at least one installation is visited site to ensure that policies and procedures meet the requirements of the Scheme and that the work that has been undertaken is consistent with MCS Regulations.
This MCS Scheme is available to all organisations involved in the supply, design, installation, and commissioning of MCS technologies.
Consumer protection
All applicants wishing to become an MCS certified installer will have to demonstrate that they have signed up to a Code of Practice that meets the guidelines set by the Office of Fair Trading's (OFT's) Consumer Code Approval Scheme. The purpose of this is to ensure that contractors offer consumers protection, including complaints handling and a comprehensive performance prediction for products to prevent mis-selling.
The REAL Assurance Scheme (Renewable Energy Assurance Limited) is the only acceptable scheme under MCS.