Heat pump installation.

In most cases, residential ASHP heat pump installations in the UK do not require planning permission. GSHP and WSHP will need to be checked to see if any permission is required from environment agencies, councils, landowners etc. The regulations can vary in each part of the UK.

Stricter rules may apply for properties that are listed buildings or within conservation areas, where additional consent or design guidelines may be required. If you are looking at installing an open loop system then have a look here. 

Heat pump systems must comply with building regulations covering. 

• Part G – Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency
• Part L – Conservation of fuel and power
• Regulation 7 – Materials and workmanship
• Part P – Electrical safety

Heat pump systems installers are recommended to comply with.

• RECC sets out high consumer protection standards for businesses who are selling or leasing renewable energy generation systems to domestic consumers. RECC is approved by Chartered Trading Standards Institute as part of the Consumer Codes Approval Scheme and is also a TrustMark Scheme Operator.
• Trustmark.  Are a UK Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for work carried out in and around the home. 
• MCS. Certifies products and installation companies for renewable energy technologies like solar PV, biomass, wind, heat pumps, and heat products.

Heat pump installers should be registered with one or more of the following.

• • BESCA
  • Blue Flame Certification
  • NICEIC
  • NAPIT

Some regulation points on installing heat pumps.

• DNO should be informed of the installation (can be done post install for average low consumption ASHP)
• ASHP should not be installed within 1 meter of a neighbour’s wall. Changes apply in new guidance and best practices.
• ASHP should be at least 1 meter away from the edge if installed on a flat roof.
• ASHP can be no louder that 42db (noise from a large fridge) from neighbours property.
• Only one ASHP per property. Changes apply in new guidance and best practices.

These requirements may vary based on the size and type of installation, so it’s recommended to work with accredited installers who understand these standards.