The status of Certificates of compliance (CoC’s) for electric water heaters (geysers)

Since the change of SANS 10254 on 24 June 2022, there is no longer ANY requirement in any standard, regulation or act for a CoC to be issued for any installation or repair of a geyser. Claims to the contrary are incorrect. There are some municipalities which still require a CoC to be issued in terms of their by-laws, which remains a legal requirement irrespective of the changes to SANS 10254. The majority of these municipalities require a PIRB CoC. If, at some time in the future, there are any amendments to this, we will inform industry immediately.

Clients (e.g. property owners, developers, insurance companies, etc.), are well within their rights to require their service providers to issue a CoC. They may choose to use any form of CoC, from any individual or company, based on their own criteria to ensure quality, safety and accountability. In short, it is entirely voluntary.

Plumbers too have the right to either issue a CoC or not (depending on their client’s requirements). In this regard we strongly recommend that plumbers choose to continue issuing CoC’s as this brings professionalism, traceability and accountability to the industry. The selection of which form of CoC to use is important and is dealt with below.

The status of Certificates of compliance (CoC’s) for solar water heaters and heat pumps.

Although SABS has made it clear that it will be removing all requirements for CoC’s from all standards, for all industries in the near future. The current requirements to issue a PIRB CoC for these types of installations remains a requirement. If these standards are amended, we will notify you immediately.

The status of notifications of pre-existing non-compliances.

It is important to note that, in terms of the Consumer Protection Act, irrespective of any changes to standards, plumbers who are repairing or replacing water heaters MUST still notify the owners/users of any pre-existing non-compliances in writing. Nothing has changed in this regard. It is a very important requirement which allows the owner to make an informed decision whilst protecting the plumber from potential liability for work which they did not complete.

Selecting the right CoC for you.

In choosing which CoC to use, we recommend that plumbers and clients consider the following when making their decision;

• a.      Is the organisation administering the CoC a not-for-profit company?
• b.      Is the organisation a registered Professional Body or just a private company?
• c.      Is the organisation subject to oversight by any government agencies?
• d.      Does the organisation have a proven track record?
• e.      How long has the organisation been involved in administering CoC’s?
• f.       What criteria does the organisation use to vet the qualifications and/or competence of plumbers?
• g.      Is there a code of conduct in place?
• h.      What, if any, mechanisms are in place to deal with poor performance?
• i.       Is there a suitable procedure for handling complaints from the public?
• j.       Are there suitable checks or audits of plumbers’ workmanship?
• k.      Does the organisation have procedures in place to ensure that plumbers are kept up to date with the latest industry developments?

In evaluating these criteria it is important to choose a CoC not because it is “easy” or “cheaper” but to choose a CoC which has real meaningful value and substance. A CoC which enhances professionalism, safety and upliftment of the industry.