FAQs

What is a PCC?

What were once generally known as ‘Architects Certificates’ for newly built or converted property are now known as 'The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) Professional Consultants Certificates'. When you are building or converting residential properties, you will need to provide some form of assurance to your lender as well as any potential purchasers and their lenders that their position is protected in the event that structural problems develop with the property sometime after handover.

Why do I need a PCC?

You will need a PCC when you are undertaking a ‘new build’, small development, and wishing to raise finance to fund the development or intending on selling, solicitors acting on your behalf or for purchasers will be asking whether a PCC is available or has been obtained. This will apply especially where the works have been carried out within the previous six years - this is the usual length of benefit covered by a PCC.

Can I get finance for my development, or sell without a PCC?

Generally, most lenders will only lend on newly built (or newly converted) properties where you can offer a building guarantee scheme - i.e a qualified professional acting as the professional consultant (e.g. a member of CIAT, RICS or RIBA) and has signed a Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) Professional Consultant’s Certificate (Architects certificate). Basically, you need this type of certificate if you are raising finance or selling the property and the purchaser needs a mortgage.

Which mortgage lenders accept PCC?

Our Professional Consultants Certificates are accepted by 95% of lenders in the CML/UK Finance Handbook. See the list of lenders below who accept our PCC: (please check with your lender if they does not appear on this list or if you are unsure)

  • Aviva

  • Bank of Scotland

  • Barclays

  • Bradford & Bingley

  • Clydesdale Bank

  • Halifax

  • HSBC UK

  • Lloyds Bank

  • National Westminster Bank (NatWest)

  • Nationwide

  • Sainsbury’s Bank

  • Santander UK

  • Scottish Widows

  • Tesco Bank

  • Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS)

  • TSB Bank

  • Ulster Bank

  • Virgin Money

  • Yorkshire Bank

Do I need anything else to accompany a PCC?

Yes, your lender will request a copy of our Professional Indemnity Insurance to ensure that we have adequate insurance cover. Once we have been appointed, we will happily provide a copy of our insurance to your lender. Our level of cover is £1,000,000.

Why would I use your practice?

Concept Architectural Services has been providing architectural, professional consulting services, and issuing PCCs in South Wales for over 25 years. Over this period of time, we have worked closely with both the Planning Departments and Building Control in the City and County of Swansea, Neath Port Talbot Borough Council, Carmarthen County Council and Powys County Council, including the Brecon Beacons National Parks. We also work closely with private companies such as Total Building Control, and Cook Brown Private Building Control Services.

How much will my PCC cost?

The cost of the PCC is directly relevant to the size of your project as we are providing indemnity cover for the period of 6 years. Therefore, the cost of your PCC would be bespoke to you and we invite you to contact us with as much information as possible, so we can provide you with an estimate.

How do I get my PCC?

Your lender will require, at various stages of the development, a site inspection and certification confirming the stage of work has been completed, ranging from completion of foundations to completion of the property. Upon issue of the ‘stage’ certification to your lender, they will release your funds.

I have already started my development, can I still get a PCC?

Yes, we may well be able to help you. In these circumstances, it is important for us to fully understand your situation, and at what stages of the development have been completed. Please contact us to discuss further.