What is Benchmark?
Benchmark is the nationally-recognised Scheme that places responsibilities on both manufacturers and installers to ensure best practice in the installation, commissioning and servicing of domestic heating and hot water products in line with Building Regulations in England and Wales. It is managed and promoted by the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC).
Benchmark covers all aspects of installation and servicing to deliver the following benefits:
- Installations carried out competently to manufacturer’s instructions so that it operates safely and at optimum performance
- Demonstrating compliance with Building Regulations
- Support for competent installers and increased isolation of unregulated or illegal installers
- A means for members of Competent Persons Schemes to notify local authorities about commissioning.
- Assurance for product suppliers that products are installed correctly, such that there is a reduction in warranty callouts and an improvement in after-sales support
- Customer protection and advice
- Encouraging regular servicing and maintenance
- Contributing to the reduction of energy consumption and carbon emissions
How does Benchmark work?
Manufacturers and product suppliers sign up to the Scheme Requirements to supply products which meet all required standards and provide support to installers and customers in the supply and after-sales service related to their products.
Installers work to a clear, effective Code of Practice to competently install, commission and service products in line with manufacturers’ instructions and provide support to the customer.
Customers receive documented evidence that their product has been correctly installed and is left operating at optimum efficiency receive clear information about how to continue to ensure optimum performance and efficiency from the product supplied; any servicing requirements and gain access to effective advice and assistance from installers and product suppliers.
Scope
The Benchmark Scheme is focused on domestic heating and hot water equipment and related products and currently covers: - Gas-fired space heating and hot water systems
- Hot water storage cylinders
- Water treatment products
How to join