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If you’re wondering what the difference between a Professional Consultants Certificate and an Architects Certificate is, you are not alone. There is a lot of contradictory information out there and it is understandable that you may have not been able to find a clear answer on the difference between the two.

At PC Certificates, we have helped thousands to achieve certification on their properties by using Professional Consultants Certificates to simplify the process. Let’s get into the difference between the two.

What is a Professional Consultants Certificate?

A Professional Consultants Certificate, or PCC, is a certification that confirms a building has been built to certain architectural standards. 

This document can be issued by a licensed surveyor or architect and vouches for the quality of the build for up to 6 years after the issued date.

What is an Architects Certificate?

An Architects Certificate is almost the same as a Professional Consultants Certificate. 

UK Finance has created the PCC on behalf of the banks to formalise and standardise the certification of newly built or newly converted residential property. The UK Finance standard PCC certification needs to be administered and signed off by a professional consultant such as an Architect (who must be registered with the Architects Registration Board – ARB) in order for it to be valid.

A PCC was formally known as an Architects Certificate throughout the construction industry. However, this no longer applies. 

Why do I need a Professional Consultants Certificate?

If you are about to commence construction or have recently built or converted residential property, then you may be required to ensure that the property is insured for mortgage purposes.

You will need a PCC if you wish to sell the property and your purchaser needs a mortgage, or you wish to rent the property and raise a Buy-to-Let mortgage to release equity.

Troubles can also occur if you are trying to purchase a property and are using a mortgage to pay for it. If the property you are interested in hasn’t got a warranty on it, then you should speak to your mortgage advisor and try to advise the seller to invest in a Professional Consultants Certificate.

Where can I find a Professional Consultants Certificate?

If you are looking for a PCC, then you must ensure that the company providing it is reputable. If not, then you will not have the protection that you need.

Furthermore, you should read any testimonials that they may have. A reputable company should have lots of testimonials that accurately reflect what working with them will be like. 

Trust PC Certificates for help with the process

If you’re looking for help or guidance with understanding what a Professional Consultants Certificate is and can do for you, we can help. Get in touch with us today to get a quote and begin the process of applying. Our team is always happy to answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, you can read our FAQs here.

Make sure to keep an eye on our blog for regular updates and advice from the industry.