UKAS
Standards and certification · National accreditation body
The United Kingdom Accreditation Service assesses organisations that carry out testing, inspection, calibration and certification. It accredits those bodies for specific activities; it is not a domestic tradesperson membership club.
Checked Official sources below.
What it covers and whether it is required
UKAS accreditation and certification are different. A contractor may be certified by an accredited certification body, but that does not normally mean the contractor itself is UKAS accredited.
Joining requirements and costs
Applicant laboratories, inspection bodies and certification bodies must meet the standard and technical criteria for their activities. Assessment and continuing oversight concern the defined accreditation scope, not every service the organisation might offer.
Check the current fees with UKAS before applying. Ask whether the quotation includes application, assessment, renewal and any per-job charges. Use published fees or ask for a written quotation.
What it means for homeowners
Use the UKAS directory and read the organisation’s current schedule of accreditation. Match the named activity, method, location and status to the service you need. A familiar accreditation symbol does not prove that every test or certificate falls within scope.
How to check a claim
Official member, card or certificate check: UKAS.
Match the record to the named person or contracting business. Check the current scope, not just a logo on a van or an old certificate. If the public record does not show the detail you need, ask the body to confirm it before appointing the business.
Where the scheme applies
The UK national accreditation body, with international recognition arrangements for accredited services. Check technical scope and acceptance for the particular job rather than assuming any worldwide use is covered.
Common questions
Is a contractor certified by an accredited body itself UKAS accredited?
Not usually. Check which organisation holds accreditation and the scope. Certification of the contractor is a separate layer.
How do I check UKAS status?
Use the official service linked in this guide, or ask the organisation to confirm the exact status or document. Membership, a training award, a product certificate and a project guarantee are different things.
Official sources
Sources checked November 2026. Scheme rules can change; confirm current requirements before applying or signing a contract.