An architect’s certificate is a document issued by a chartered architect or surveyor on a newly built or converted property, confirming the construction meets an acceptable standard. It’s typically issued for a period of 6 years and is most often requested by mortgage lenders before they’ll release funds on a property without a formal structural warranty in place.
This document is often referred to by several different names. It’s also known as a CML certificate, and more accurately today, a Professional Consultants’ Certificate (PCC). All three terms refer to the same underlying document, just using different naming conventions from different points in the industry’s history.
Here’s what it actually covers, whether it counts as a warranty, why the name keeps changing, and how to get one.
What Does an Architect’s Certificate Cover?
An architect’s certificate confirms that a professional consultant monitored key stages of construction and can verify the completed building complies with the approved plans and Building Regulations. The consultant issuing the certificate accepts liability to the property owner and their lender for 6 years from the date of issue, backed by their own professional indemnity insurance.
It’s also important to understand the limits of what an architect’s certificate covers. It isn’t the same as latent defects insurance, and it won’t pay out automatically if a problem is discovered later. Instead, it gives the lender assurance in the absence of a formal warranty.
Is an Architect’s Certificate a Warranty?
An architect’s certificate is professional assurance, not an insurance-backed warranty. Here’s how they differ:
- Type of protection: An architect’s certificate is professional liability assurance. A structural warranty is insurance-backed cover.
- Claims route: With an architect’s certificate, you generally need to prove the consultant was negligent. With a structural warranty, you can claim directly against the policy without proving fault.
- Transferability: Structural warranties are generally designed to transfer to future buyers. An architect’s certificate isn’t built for this in the same way.
- Cost: Architect’s certificates are usually cheaper, which is why smaller builders and self-builders often choose this route, sometimes at close to half the cost of a full warranty.
If you’re planning to sell or remortgage down the line, many lenders will expect a 10-year structural warranty on a new home, so it’s worth thinking ahead rather than assuming a PCC will always be enough.
What Did it Used to be Called?
This document has gone by a few names over the years, which is a big part of why it causes confusion. It was originally known as an Architect’s Certificate, reflecting who most commonly issued it. It was also called a CML Certificate, named after the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML), the industry body that approved its standard format.
In 2017, the CML merged with several other financial organisations to form UK Finance, and the certificate was formally renamed the Professional Consultants’ Certificate. The older names have stuck around through industry habit, even though PCC is now the correct current term.
When Do You Need an Architect’s Certificate?
An architect’s certificate, or PCC, tends to come up in a specific set of circumstances rather than for every property purchase.
- No formal structural warranty in place: Properties built without cover from a scheme like NHBC or Premier Guarantee often need a PCC instead.
- New build or conversion without a registered developer: Self-builders and small developers not registered with a warranty scheme frequently rely on a PCC.
- Lender requirement before releasing funds: Some lenders won’t complete a mortgage on a new or converted property until a PCC or equivalent cover is confirmed.
- Buy-to-let or remortgaging on a new-build property: Landlords raising finance against a recently built or converted property may also be asked for one.
If a property already has a structural warranty, an architect’s certificate generally isn’t needed alongside it.
Who Can Issue One?
Only a suitably qualified professional consultant can issue a valid architect’s certificate. This means a chartered architect, surveyor, or engineer registered with a recognised body such as RICS, CIOB, CIAT, or the Architects Registration Board.
The consultant must hold professional indemnity insurance covering the certificate’s full term, and their provider must be approved by UK Finance for the certificate to be accepted by mainstream lenders. Acceptance varies by lender, so it’s worth checking your lender’s approved list before committing to a provider.
How to Get an Architect’s Certificate
Getting a PCC is usually faster and less involved than arranging a full structural warranty, which is part of why smaller builders and self-builders often choose it first. If that sounds like the right fit for your project, you can request a PCC quote directly from ABC+ Warranty today.
If you’d rather have the broader, insurance-backed protection of a full warranty, particularly if you’re planning to sell or remortgage in future, it’s worth looking at our structural warranty options instead. It’s also possible to start with a PCC and upgrade to a structural warranty later, either before construction completes or after, so speak to our team if you’re not sure which route suits your project best.
Why Choose ABC+ Warranty?
Our architect’s certificates and other warranty options are delivered by professionals with over 30 years of chartered surveyor experience. Every certificate and policy we issue are backed by AXA Insurance for your peace of mind.
An architect’s certificate from ABC+ will be accepted by major UK mortgage lenders, ensuring your project meets lending requirements.
As a RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) registered company, our surveyors are qualified to the highest level. There are no hidden costs involved with our services, and we boast a speedy certification process, with the document reaching your hand in hours, not weeks.
Get a Quick Quote today, or contact our team to discuss your needs. You can call us on 01619288804, message us on WhatsApp, or email us on abc@architectscertificate.co.uk.
FAQs
Will an architect’s certificate satisfy my mortgage lender?
Some lenders accept an architect’s certificate or PCC, but many now expect a 10-year structural warranty on new-build properties. It’s best to check your specific lender’s requirements early, rather than assuming either option will be accepted.
Can I get an architect’s certificate after construction is finished?
In most cases, yes, provided the consultant can still verify compliance with the approved plans and Building Regulations. It’s best arranged as early as possible, ideally with a consultant involved during construction rather than afterwards.
Can I upgrade from an architect’s certificate to a structural warranty later?
Yes. It’s possible to move from a PCC to a full structural warranty either before construction completes or after the property is finished, though the options and cost will depend on your specific circumstances.
