The National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) was formed in 1992 as a trade association.
They’re a leading Government approved and United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accredited membership scheme operator in the building services and fabric sector.
Following the introduction of Part P of the building regulations in 2004 NAPIT was authorised to operate Electrical Competent Person Schemes (CPS) under full scope and defined scope.
To become a member and accredited installer there are minimum entry requirements to ensure industry standards are met.
If you search for a NAPIT registered member you will see their credentials and scope of works listed.
When you find someone who is registered, you’ll know they are suitably qualified, verified and have been assessed on-site for the works they are offering.
Members are required to prove they have public liability insurance to cover them should anything go wrong, so you won’t be left out of pocket.
They’re also required to prove multi-function test equipment is calibrated every year.
No.
NICEIC does have greater awareness and has existed longer, though despite what some people may suggest, there is no tangible difference between the 2.
Other than 1 is in the South of England and the other is the North.
Some misinformed people believe NICEIC is the holy grail and everyone must be a member or they aren’t really reputable, which is completely untrue.
NAPIT offers the same products and services for Electricians as the NICEIC, they have the same minimum entry requirements – they’re just not as well known.
If NICEIC had a real advantage point, as a for-profit business they’d likely be telling everyone, don’t ya think?
I approached the 2 governing bodies when I was preparing to set-up on my own.
I found NICEIC very difficult to get hold of, despite sending a contact form on their website and not hearing after 3 days I attempted live chat which got me nowhere before waiting 20 minutes to get through on the telephone and speak to a person.
This was an anti-climax, said person was abrupt, uninterested, and said the wait time for new applications was 16 weeks.
Not only did that seem rather long, I thought if they’re like this at the money taking stage what will they be like when I really need them.
I sent an enquiry to NAPIT and received a call the same day – the experience was very positive, not only were staff friendly and interested. The shorter lead time of 10 weeks was a nice bonus which worked better for me.
If NAPIT continue to offer the same great level of service and technical support they offer then I’ll continue to be a member.
