AUTUMN 2015
NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER
THE MONEY ISSUE! INSIDE...
GETTING TO GRIPS WITH BANKING DON’T BE BAFFLED BY BOOKKEEPING SELL YOURSELF WITH OUR GUIDE TO MARKETING & ADVERTISING CASHFLOW IS KING
WIN
A KANE455 KIT WORTH £439 + VAT!
Visit us at Phex Chelsea stand 104
To find out more about delivering best in class system protection, call 01242 546717 or visit www.adey.com
WELCOME | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 01 AUTUMN 2015
NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER
THE MONEY ISSUE! INSIDE...
GETTING TO GRIPS WITH BANKING DON’T BE BAFFLED BY BOOKKEEPING SELL YOURSELF WITH OUR GUIDE TO MARKETING & ADVERTISING CASHFLOW IS KING
WIN
A KANE455 KIT WORTH £439 + VAT!
EDITOR: RACHEL MACSWEENEY editor@sng-publishing.co.uk ADVERTISING: SUE CATT sue.catt@sng-publishing.co.uk GRAPHIC DESIGN: STUDIO 74 www.studio-74.co.uk PUBLISHER: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-publishing.co.uk PRINTERS Stephens & George, England GENERAL ENQUIRIES To subscribe to NQI Magazine call 0870 774 3049 or subscribe online at www.hip-magazine.co.uk DISCLAIMER ‘NQI Magazine’ is published by SNG Publishing Ltd. All content is copyright SNG Publishing Ltd 2015. Although SNG Publishing Ltd has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this publication, neither it nor any contributor can accept any legal responsibility whatsoever for consequences that may arise from errors or omissions or any opinions or advice given. This publication is not a substitute for professional advice on a specific transaction. Advertisements are accepted for publication in NQI Magazine only upon SNG Publishing Ltd standard terms of acceptance of advertising. All material published in NQI Magazine is copyright and unauthorised reproduction is forbidden. No reproduction allowed without prior permission.
Welcome to the second issue of NQI. After the great response to our launch issue we’re very pleased and very proud of all the positive feedback so thank you to everyone who got in touch with us. In this issue we talk to two installers about their different experiences. Simon Ashley from Norwich left college earlier this year after four years as a mature student. His take on learning is probably slightly different to younger students. We also catch up with Adam Bainbridge, a previous winner of the HIP UK Plumbing Apprentice of the Year, who has founded his own successful business. Elsewhere in the magazine we’ve taken a look at some of the things which you’ll have to consider if starting your own business. For example, how to handle the banking side of things, and should you set up as a sole trader or limited company. More specifically to the industry, we’ve looked at all the renewable registration schemes on offer and delved into what the requirements for the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) are. Our regular features include the latest product news, industry developments, hall of shame and the chance to win a KANE455 Kit worth £439+VAT! We hope you find this issue as useful as the first one, and don’t forget to get in touch with any news or ideas for articles. Happy reading!
Rachel MacSweeney © SNG Publishing Ltd, 2015
HIP-MAGAZINE.CO.UK
EDITOR
/HIPPLUMBER
/HIPMAGAZINE
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REGULARS 01 04 14 36 42
Editor’s Note Industry News New Product Reviews Tea Break Time Hall of Shame
WIN PAGE 06
AUTUMN 2015 | CONTENTS
10 11 12 17
Plumber Profile
Past HIP UK Apprentice of the Year winner Adam Bainbridge tells NQI how he’s gone on to set up his own successful business
Banking
Tips on getting to grips with the right bank account
Business Accounting Software
If bookkeeping baffles you, then our handy accounting software overview will help you get your books into shape
Case Study
Simon Ashley shares what he’s learnt since leaving college
Sole Trader Versus Limited Company What’s the best structure for your company?
20
Mira Showers: First in Quality & Innovation How the company has continued to embrace new technology since it’s launch in 1921
23
PAGE 20
08
PAGE 10
FEATURES
New Partnership Leading boiler manufacturer Baxi announces partnership with NEST
26 31
34
How to Sell Yourself
We focus on the best approach to tackling your marketing and advertising
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Saniflo take you through installing their Kinemagic recessed walk in cubicle
The Green Deal
As funding comes to an end, Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant looks at what’s been learnt and what Newly Qualified Installers need to be aware of
PAGE 31
24
Cashflow is King Top tips for maintaining a healthy cashflow
Getting Real About Renewables Do you know all there is to know about the Renewable Heat Incentive?
COMPETITIONS 06
WIN a KANE455 Kit
PAGE 34
38
Vitodens 200-W with weather compensation
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Vitotrol 200 RF wireless remote control
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A+
04 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | INDUSTRY NEWS
INDUSTRY NEWS
We’ve rounded up all the latest news items from your industry FREE ASBESTOS TRAINING The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA), has announced the dates of its free asbestos awareness training courses, as part of its national campaign to highlight the dangers of asbestos. Members of the national Association who are involved in the Train Safe, Work Safe, Keep Safe campaign, which takes place during September and October this year, have offered over 3500 hours free asbestos training to those who attend in an attempt to further raise the profile of the importance of the correct handling of asbestos.
COMING SOON TO A STADIUM NEAR YOU PHEX is back this autumn with two shows in the North and South, giving visitors the opportunity to meet with the manufacturers whose products they use every day. With shows in both Manchester and London, installers from across the UK will have the chance to learn about new products, ask questions, and take advantage of show offers, helping to keep their business offering at the forefront of the market. PHEX Manchester will be held at Old Trafford stadium on 14th-15th October, and PHEX Chelsea will return to Stamford Bridge on 18th-19th November. With over 95 exhibitors, as well as seminars from Gas Safe Register and the Heating & Hot Water Industry Council, PHEX ensures installers have access to all the information they need to make their business a success. For more information and to book your free ticket, visit www.phexshow.co.uk/register
The Train Safe, Work Safe, Keep Safe campaign is predominantly aimed at individual tradespeople, DIY enthusiasts and small companies who may not otherwise have previously known about, or received such training. A list of training dates by region is available at www.ukata.org.uk
GLOW-WORM LAUNCHES NEW TOOLBOX APP Glow-worm is helping to ease the workload of professional installers with the launch of its enhanced industry-leading Plumbing Toolbox app. Exclusively available to Glow-worm’s Club Energy loyalty scheme members, the Plumbing Toolbox provides installers with everything they need to do the job in hand using the technology already in their pocket. Along with easy access to full technical product manuals and fault-finder codes to enable onsite diagnostics, the app now allows qualified installers to submit Gas Safe notifications directly to the register, a first for the UK heating industry. To join Club Energy and download the app, visit www.glow-worm.co.uk
INDUSTRY NEWS | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 05
SMARTPHONES IN THE BATHROOM! Recent research from the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC) into consumer behaviour has found that 42% of adults take something into the toilet with them to pass the time, of which 24% take a smartphone. 1,000 homeowners across England and Wales were questioned to reveal that mobile devices are influencing our choice of reading material to pass the time, with only 6% of respondents reading a magazine and only 4% choosing a book. 28% of people reported dropping items into the toilet, of which 14% had mishandled a mobile or home phone, a typical response being “The phone fell out of my top pocket when bending over to flush the loo!” Consumers can source a local APHC member plumber at www.FindAQualityPlumber.co.uk
IDEAL BOILERS HELP YOUNG ADULTS FIND THEIR SKILLS Ideal Boilers’ HR team recently ran weekly workshops with local students, aged 16-17, as part of its support for the Hull City FC Tigers Trust ROAR! programme. The workshops were a part of the National Citizenship Service programme, which helps the students develop key life skills, and incorporates a variety of outward bound activities, such as rock climbing, kayaking and team building exercises, as well as a week’s residency at Hull University where the students also did charity work. The ROAR! programme encourages local businesses and people to get involved with their community by supporting the charitable work of the Tigers Trust. Ideal is a corporate champion having donated over £10,000 to the cause. For more information visit www.idealboilers.com
PLUMBERS GIVE WARM WELCOME TO ERP Despite widespread concerns around the arrival of ErP, new research from Bristan has revealed that UK plumbers are positive about the new legislation. According to a survey among Bristan Connect installers, three quarters (67%) said they welcome the arrival of ErP stating that it is vital if the UK is to achieve its 2020 carbon reduction targets. When asked what word most appropriately summed up their feelings around ErP – half (50%) said positive, while a quarter felt excited (25%) – in contrast, just a quarter (25%) said they felt daunted. More so, exactly half (50%) said they felt more than prepared for the arrival of ErP on 26th September (2015) and have been reading up on it well in advance. For further information visit www.bristan.com
06 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | COMPETITION
W I N In this issue we’re giving away a KANE455 kit which has a list price of £439 + VAT! The kit includes a flue gas analyser, flue probe, batteries, charger, KANE IRP-2 infra-red printer, manuals, and calibration report - all in one handy carry case.
The KANE455 kit provides everything you need to analyse flue gases when installing or commissioning a new boiler. The analyser is suitable for use with oil, gas, or wood pellet boilers and is ideal for performing CO safety checks either in a room or around an appliance. It can check combustion performance and efficiency, as well as flue draught. The infra-red printer means you can produce reports on site. To be in with a chance of winning simply email editor@sng-publishing.co.uk with ‘Kane competition’ in the title of your email. The closing date is 31st October 2015. We’ll pick a winner at random and notify them by email shortly after the competition closes.
An accent on training… We know our boilers are only as good as you – the installers who fit them. That’s why we put so much into our training and support programmes – so there’s more for you to take out. And when it comes compliance and new developments, like ErP, we help you stay on top of your game and ahead of the field.
Scan the QR code to go mobile with the NEW App for installers!
© 2015 Vokèra Ltd. All rights reserved.
With an expanding number of training centres across the UK and hundreds of courses every year, we make sure that you’re ready for anything.
Find out more at vokera.co.uk
Vokèra Affinity offers FREE Gas Safe notification, extended warranty activation and automated points claims. Register today at www.vokeraaffinity.co.uk
08 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | CASE STUDY
PLUMBER PROFILE Adam Bainbridge won the HIP UK Apprentice Plumber of the Year title in 2009, and used his competition prize winnings to invest in tools. That same year he set up A G Bainbridge Plumbing & Heating in Durham when he was just 18. Today, Adam’s company encompasses an additional three businesses; Teesdale Renewables, CMJ Electrical and Teesdale Renewable Fuels.
Back in 2009 news of Adam’s competition win as the HIP UK Apprentice of the Year was covered in the Teesdale Mercury and the Northern Echo in Darlington. At the time he wasn’t particularly keen about being in the local papers, but looking back now he says it was one of the best things that ever happened because it helped him to start building a local profile for his business. When he set up A G Bainbridge P&H, Adam was still working for a semi-retired plumber who had helped him gain valuable experience but encouraged and supported him as he set up on his own. Adam says his employer taught him the importance of
maintaining a good standard and told him always to ask himself whether he would pay for the job that’s been done. He also taught him that it’s not about being the fastest or the cheapest, success comes from building a strong reputation for quality work. Adam worked really long hours but it wasn’t alien to him, having grown up on a farm he was used to early starts and late finishes and says his Dad had always pushed him to succeed, saying you have to work hard for what you want. The hard work has certainly paid off and today his company employs 11 staff including three apprentices. The company now installs hundreds of central heating systems every year for customers in the Teesdale area.
ainbridge WHO: Adam B Owns DOING WHAT?: ating Co. Plumbing & He WHERE: Durham
One recent installation at Bogg House (a seven bedroom house, office area and one bedroom bedsit annexe) involved replacing two oil boilers with a biomass boiler. The owners benefited from reducing their annual fuel bill by half from £5,000 to £2,500 using the new biomass boiler.
“...it’s not about being the fastest or the cheapest, success comes from building a strong reputation for quality work.”
CASE STUDY | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 09
In addition, the installation is eligible for payments of £4,000 every year for seven years as part of the Government’s Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive. Adam also says when he started out his dream was to have five vans out on the road, now he has six!
teesdalerenewables.co.uk
ADAM’S TOP THREE TIPS FOR OTHER INSTALLERS WANTING TO SET UP THEIR OWN BUSINESS: 1
Put the hours in
2
Take a risk, especially when it comes to being ready to employ someone
3
Keep on top of invoicing!
He says this last point may sound dull but it’s crucial when you’re starting up and forever after, particularly when you become responsible for paying other people’s wages.
10 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | BANKING
. . . G N I K N BA
...it might be boring, but getting the right account can make things easier later on.
Independent financial journalist Adam Aiken reports
Sorting out your bank account might be one of the duller things on your to-do list when you start a new business, but it’s worth spending some time looking for the best deal. The good news is that if you are a sole trader, you can use your personal account for your business banking, and this will almost certainly be cheaper than a dedicated business account.
account for every penny paid into and out of your account. So if a relative gives you a £50 cheque for Christmas or a mate pays you back for a night out, make a note of these transactions. For self assessment tax purposes you’ll also need to keep a copy of bank statements for the last seven years. If the taxman demands to see all your bank statements and there are payments you can’t explain, you could be forced to treat it as earned income – and owe tax on it. It might be an idea to open a new personal account just for your business transactions, and keep that separate from your personal and household stuff.
Going overdrawn
Record-keeping If you do opt to use your personal account, record-keeping will be key. You will need to be able to
It’s quite normal for young businesses to dip into the red. You might need to go overdrawn to buy new tools, and there may be lean times as you build up your business.
Discuss an overdraft facility with your bank at the outset. It’s a waste of time getting everything set up only to find out later that your bank won’t let you borrow. How much you will be able to borrow will depend on your credit rating, but younger customers are likely to have stricter conditions imposed on them than more established borrowers.
What next? If you decide you want to open a dedicated business account away from your personal account, search any of the main price-comparison websites – and take a close look at the charges. For example, if you expect most of your customers to pay by cash or cheque, an account with a monthly charge but no transactional fees might be best. Don’t just assume that your existing bank is the best place to open a business account – although your existing relationship might help you negotiate a better overdraft facility.
ACCOUNTANCY | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 11
BUSINESS ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE
Are you baffled by bookkeeping? If numbers are not your thing then find out how accounting software could help keep your business books in shape. Accounting software might sound dull, but it can help you keep track of your cash flow, invoices, profit, tax and VAT. You can prepare professional looking invoices very quickly, which are then logged in the system and you can instantly see when payments are due. Supplier invoices can be input so you can keep track of your spending, and make sure you pay bills on time.
“...the right system can help make your bookkeeping much easier.” You don’t have to go all DIY on your finances. One strength of accounting software is that it’s great for producing reports which you can give to your accountant for tax returns or end of year accounts. If you choose the right system it can help make your bookkeeping much easier.
WHAT ACCOUNTING SOFTWARE CAN DO FOR YOU
Keep track of income and expenditure Help with tax returns Control stock or material levels Create and send customer invoices Track supplier payments Prepare VAT returns More advanced options feature payroll
Different systems suit different people, but here are some options for smaller businesses to take a look at. KASHFLOW: Cloud based accounting software which offers a 14 day free trial. A big plus is that you can run your VAT report and submit your return to HMRC directly from their system. Packages start at £5 + VAT per month. www.kashflow.com FREEAGENT: Good for sole traders or contractors, it’s geared towards someone with not too much accounting experience and uses easy to understand terminology. Costs start at £19 + VAT per month for sole traders using the cloud based system. www.freeagent.com SAGE ONE ACCOUNTS: A slimline package from accounting software specialists Sage who supply many big businesses with a range of comprehensive packages. The Sage One cashbook package says it’s perfect for sole traders and cash-based businesses and costs from £5 + VAT per month. www.sageone.com There are other options too. Take a look at TurboCash (www.turbocash.net) which is free to download, as well as NCH Express Invoice (www.nchsoftware. com) and gnuCash (www.gnucash.org). Finally, don’t just take our word for it – ask around. Find out what other people are using and see what they recommend.
12 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | CASE STUDY
WHAT I’VE E C N I S T N R A E L LEAVING COLLEGE shley NAME: Simon A ich City COLLEGE: Norw 3 Level 2 & Level STUDIED: NVQ
“...if you’re prepared to put a bit of effort in yourself then you’ll get more out of it.” NQI: What made you choose plumbing as a career? SA: Well I was actually a mature student and had lots of different jobs before I went back to college. I’d been working in the bar trade in and around Norwich as well as doing a bit of landscape gardening and driving. Then the boss of Anglia Gas Services asked me to help out with a few jobs for a couple of days. Which became a couple of weeks, which then got me interested in going back to college. That was in 2011 and I enrolled to start my Level 2 in September that year. NQI: How did you find going back to college? SA: Actually I jumped at the chance
to study and get my qualifications. It was Nigel – my boss – from Anglia Gas Services who suggested it. I think being a mature student made me approach things differently and I could see the bigger picture of having a career based on my qualifications. I probably did study more than I would have done at a younger age and could appreciate what the qualifications would lead to in terms of a job.
attending college one day every week and actually found it broke up the working week quite nicely!
NQI: So it’s never too late to change jobs then?
NQI: And you decided to stay on and do your Level 3 as well?
SA: Definitely not. I was lucky that the opportunity came along and what I would say is that if you’re prepared to put a bit of effort in yourself and ask questions in class then you’ll get more out of it. I was
SA: Yes – in for a penny in for a pound! I finished my Level 3 in July this year and one of the main reasons for doing that was because the ACS gas training and assessment was included in that.
Although I really enjoy the practical part of the job, college is invaluable for all the groundwork you need in paperwork, legislation and standards.
CASE STUDY | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 13
NQI: So where are you working now? SA: Anglia Gas Services employed me as an apprentice throughout my training, and I’m now a full time employee with them. Most of the work is domestic, although we do a bit of light commercial.
I’m getting my LPG qualifications as Norfolk is very rural with some very large villages and lots of isolated houses which don’t have access to mains gas. There are five people working for the company and the work is quite varied with different types of installation.
NQI: So what’s next for you? SA: I’m really enjoying the job I do, and there’s a chance to learn more skills now as the company is looking at doing more renewable installations as that’s such a big growth area. You can never have enough training!
A WIN FOR SIMON Simon recently received the Cliff Nichols Shield for Best Apprentice from the Norfolk Branch of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE). Bob Baldock from City College Norwich who assessed Simon on-site during his apprenticeship said ‘we had no hesitation in nominating Simon for the award as he did really well over the four years of studying and practical work. He is very astute, and is the kind of student who was always asking questions and interacting with the tutors, which encourages other students to participate. He totally deserved to win the award.’ After receiving the award, Simon said: ‘I was stunned when I found out that I had won the award - it was very much appreciated. I really enjoyed my course as it was good to learn the theory alongside my job.’ The awards were presented by Terry Stephenson, President of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, at the Norwich based Heatrae Sadia factory earlier this year.
14 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | NEW PRODUCTS
PEGLER YORKSHIRE LAUNCHES EXTENSIVE NEW RANGE WITH PLUMBFIX Plumbfix is launching an extensive new collection of fittings by Pegler Yorkshire. Incorporating all of the features and benefits synonymous with existing Pegler Yorkshire products, the new range has been developed in partnership with the brand following feedback from Plumbfix customers. It includes a choice of over 150 fittings, each boasting quality and reliability. Qualified plumbers can choose from a range of compression, soldering, end-feed and push-fit fittings, available in a range of 8 to 28mm sizes and offering a 25 year manufacturer guarantee. Furthermore, following feedback from its customers on the toolbox essentials they need, Plumbfix has also worked with Pegler Yorkshire to design an exclusive range of single and double pack sizes. This means plumbers only need to purchase the number of products they need for a particular job, rather than buying in bulk. 0808 101 0000 plumbďŹ x.com
MUSIC TO YOUR EARS! Hitachi Power Tools has launched the UR18DSDL DAB site radio, a rugged high quality DAB site radio with Bluetooth functionality. Designed to give tradespeople high quality sound out on site, the radio is powered by any Hitachi 18V Li-ion slide in battery, from 1.5Ah all the way to 5Ah. The UR18DSDL comes equipped with a DAB receiver for superior sound quality and low noise, and the built in Bluetooth wireless technology enables users to link their own compatible devices with the unit and listen to their own playlists. Hitachi has added some great features, including a USB socket to charge your device, a storage case which holds most smartphones and, for those quieter moments, an auxiliary input connects to a 3.5mm headphone socket. 01908 660663 hitachi-powertools.co.uk
NEW PRODUCTS | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 15
PLUMBING INNOVATION GETS ADEY BACKING Central heating water treatment pioneer ADEY has pledged its support for a heating installer bringing a new plumbing product to market – The hotun. As a fellow installer who also identified a gap in the market to create MagnaClean, Chris Adey was able to see the hard work which had gone into the design and appreciated what’s required to bring it to life as a prototype. hotun is a tundish which allows plumbers to connect pressure relief valve discharges to a local waste or foul pipe and is the brainchild of installer Russell Armstrong from Derby. The compact design fits into the tightest spaces and meets all water and building regulations. It also has an in-built non-return valve which eliminates odours from coming back from the foul drain. It handles trickles and full bore discharge up to 100˚c. 01332 702678 hotun.co.uk
*
*£100 off your first installation of an Ariston E-COMBI Evo or Clas HE Evo boiler, followed by £50 off each of your next 4 purchases of Ariston E-COMBI Evo or Clas HE Evo boilers.
Want to know more? Call 01494 418 585
KNOWLEDGE | SKILLS | EXCELLENCE aristonacademy.co.uk
16 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | NEW PRODUCTS
PREMIER PLUS JOINS HEATRAE SADIA PRODUCT LINE Fans of the Premier Plus cylinder range are set to benefit from access to an improved customer support service, after it was announced that the range will be joining the Heatrae Sadia product line. The much-loved affordable line of Premier Plus unvented hot water cylinders has been rebranded under the Heatrae Sadia name, enabling engineers to access the manufacturer’s market leading Customer Support team. Designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK, Premier Plus cylinders are built to the highest standard from corrosion resistant Duplex stainless steel. Suitable for domestic and commercial applications, the Premier Plus is available in 100-300 litre capacities with direct and indirect variants and comes with a 30 year parts and labour warranty. A System Fit model is available in 120-300 litre models comes pre-plumbed and pre-wired, making it even quicker to fit. 01603 420220
heatraesadia.com
SANIFLO LAUNCHES KINEDUO 3 WALK-IN BATH A new, customisable Kineduo 3 walk-in shower bath by Saniflo has been launched to replace the previous version. Continuously striving to add that something extra special to its collection of bathroom products for the inclusive market, the experts at Saniflo have taken the walk-in bath and given it a contemporary twist with some stunning features. Available in three sizes - 1600 x 750, 1700 x 750 and 1800 x 800 – the Kineduo 3 easy access shower bath is constructed from fully encapsulated acrylic, making it extremely robust and long lasting. It features a unique adjustable feet system and is available in both right and left hand versions making it suitable for almost any bathroom and user. 020 8842 0033 saniflo.co.uk
BUSINESS FEATURE | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 17
R E D A R T SOLE VE RSUS Y N A P M O C D E T I LI M What’s the best structure for your business?
SOLE TRADER
The two main options are either sole trader or limited company. There are others like a business partnership, but most people will opt for one of those first two choices. The structure you choose will determine your legal responsibilities such as:
If you start working for yourself, you’re automatically classed as a self-employed sole trader. You’ll need to contact HMRC and register for self assessment at www.hmrc.gov.uk SOLE TRADERS MUST: send a self assessment tax return every year pay income tax on the profits your business makes pay National Insurance
the paperwork you must fill in to get started
You must also register for VAT if you expect your takings to be more than £82,000 a year. You must register with HMRC by 5th October following the end of the tax year that you’ll be sending a tax return for. So if you start your business in October 2015, your tax year will end 5th April 2016 and you’ll need to register with HMRC by October 5th 2016. Sole traders can employ staff, and you’ll be personally responsible for any losses your business makes. If you’re either a contractor or subcontractor in the construction industry you’ll need to register with the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). There’s lots of information about CIS on the HMRC website. As a sole trader you can use your own name or trade under a business name. You must include your own name and business name (if you have one) on any official paperwork, like invoices and letters.
the taxes you’ll have to manage and pay how you can personally take the profit your business makes your personal responsibilities if your business makes a loss You can change your business structure after you’ve started up - many people start off as sole traders and switch to a limited company later on. But which one should you choose to start with?
Continued on page 18
18 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | BUSINESS FEATURE
TOP TIPS 1 PICK THE RIGHT STRUCTURE TO MINIMISE THE TAX YOU’LL PAY
2 GET ADVICE FROM A QUALIFIED ACCOUNTANT
3 THINK ABOUT YOUR CUSTOMERS – ARE THEY HAPPY DEALING WITH A SOLE TRADER OR WOULD THEY PREFER A LIMITED COMPANY
LIMITED COMPANY Forming a limited company is a little more complicated. It’s a legal entity, and its finances are separate to your personal finances. Any profit is owned by the company, which pays Corporation Tax. The company can then share profits with directors or shareholders through dividend payments. Salary payments can be made to employees, and an accountant can advise on the most tax efficient and cost effective way of getting money out of a limited company. Every limited company has shareholders. Directors are responsible for running the company and will often own shares. There are many legal responsibilities involved with being a director of a limited company which should be carefully checked before you go down this route.
Getting set up To set up a limited company you’ll need to register the company with Companies House and also let HMRC know when you start trading. Meeting tax responsibilities is much more involved, and costly either in terms of time if you choose to do it yourself, or in terms of money if you pay an accountant. You’ll need to weigh up whether it’s really worth it.
EVERY FINANCIAL YEAR, A COMPANY MUST: put together statutory accounts send Companies House an annual return send HMRC a Company Tax Return
“There are many legal responsibilities involved with being a director of a limited company which should be carefully checked before you go down this route.” The company must register for VAT if you expect its takings to be more than £82,000 a year the same as if you were sole trader. Directors have to fill in a self assessment tax return every year and pay income tax and national insurance.
But it’s not all about tax. Some customers will prefer dealing with a sole trader, and others will prefer a limited company so try to look at the bigger picture too when you’re weighing up your options.
20 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | SPONSORED FEATURE
MIRA SHOWERS: FIRST IN QUALITY & INNOVATION People do not continue to improve as they get ever older particularly as they pass their 94th anniversary but companies can, as Mira – Britain’s biggest and longest established shower manufacturer – demonstrates.
The Cheltenham-based firm, revealed by research as the one most trusted by UK installers, is at the forefront of showering technology with a range of sophisticated products that incorporate a raft of innovations, from digital showers to remote controls.
“...Mira Showers has a solution for every specification requirement.”
Company history In 1921, when James M Walker and Walter W Crossweller founded the original firm, the company distributed German industrial instruments as well as American water and oil meters. The move into valves came when it was appointed the UK distributor and licensed manufacturer of Leonard thermostatic range in 1936.
Later it developed the Leonard 722, the first thermostatic shower valve to cope with the UK’s unique pressure conditions, and the Mira 8 manual mixer. And the Mira 8, launched in 1963, swiftly became the best-selling brand on the market, selling its millionth unit in 1984 in a production run that lasted well over 20 years. And the innovations just kept coming – the then revolutionary thermoscopic mixing valves launched in 1979, the Mira Supreme electric shower with patented flow regulator and the Mira Electronic Bathroom control system – a world first in integrated electronic controls for all bathroom functions. The company launched the world’s first thermostatic electric shower, the Mira Advance, in 1995 with 8.7kW and 9.8kW versions and 5 memory variants. Having launched its first digital
shower in 2005, the latest offer is Platinum Dual which offers users both a deluge head and a handset that can be used together or independently. Further luxury is also possible for consumers combining their shower and bath tub with the bath fill function which eliminates the need for taps, creating a clean minimalist look.
Wireless technology And Mira wireless technology has been extended to the Advance Flex Extra Wireless, which offers wireless pairing to a waste water pump. This simplifies installing or retro-fitting a wet room in situations where a conventional gravity fed drainage system would not be feasible. Whether for the domestic RMI sector, volume housebuild, ‘multigenerational’ bathrooms, or highend commercial spaces; Mira Showers has a solution for every specification requirement. Beyond high-quality, precision engineered products, the company also sets the standard in terms of guarantees, customer service and technical advice. 0844 571 5000 mirashowers.co.uk
PHEX MANCHESTER
Old Trafford, Manchester United FC 14-15 October
PHEX CHELSEA
Stamford Bridge, Chelsea FC 18-19 November
Meet the majority of the UK’s boiler manufacturers
All the latest plumbing trends and developments
Industry Seminars & Training
Meet over 100 exhibitors
Negotiate the best deals on offer
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PHEX is FREE to attend so register online NOW!
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“It’s important to make the right decisions when you’re starting your career.” Joining OFTEC could be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make... OFTEC offers competent person registration for heating technicians working with oil, solid fuel, renewables (heat pumps, biomass and solar thermal) and electrical Part P. Join us to: • • • • •
Demonstrate your competence Self-certify* your work Obtain free technical advice and industry news Access discounts with OFTEC Direct Get marketing help and online listing
To find out more visit www.oftec.org.uk or contact our registration team on: 01473 626298 or registration@oftec.org.uk OFTEC Registration Services Foxwood House, Dobbs Lane, Kesgrave, Ipswich, IP5 2QQ Telephone: 01473 626298 Email: registration@oftec.org.uk *In England, Wales, the Channel Isles and Isle of Man.
SPECIAL REPORT | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 23
BAXI ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH NEST Leading boiler manufacturer Baxi has announced a new partnership with Nest. The partnership will see Baxi incorporate Nest product training into its free one-day boiler training courses and make the Nest Learning Thermostat™ available to both its installer network and customers.
Baxi is committed to promoting the use of controls alongside energy efficient boilers, and believes there is growing demand for advanced home technology. The Nest Learning Thermostat™ takes away the hassle of programming. It is simply turned up and down like a manual thermostat for about a week, and then Nest will create a personalised schedule that is refined over time. With its built-in sensors, it knows when no one is home, so Nest’s Auto-Away feature can automatically turn down the temperature, helping to save even more energy. The temperature can
“Nest products aren’t just smart - they actually learn...” be controlled from a smartphone, tablet or computer. Commenting on the newly formed relationship, Andrew Keating, marketing director at Baxi, said: “Baxi is committed to ensuring that our products and services make our customers’ lives easier. So, working with Nest, a company that is leading the way in home technologies and is making energy efficiency simpler for homeowners, was a very clear choice for us. “Baxi training centres across the UK will offer Nest product training, so installers will have the chance to
get hands-on training to become a Nest Pro as part of their free Baxi one-day boiler training courses.” Lionel Paillet, general manager of Europe at Nest Labs, said: “Nest products aren’t just smart – they actually learn, adjusting to the homeowner’s habits and preferences automatically – so the Nest Learning Thermostat does all the hard work. This makes controlling energy simple for the homeowner, while keeping the consumer in control and informed – which really dovetails with Baxi’s strategy to make installers’ and homeowners’ lives easier. We are looking forward to working with Baxi to bring Nest products to more people.” baxi.co.uk nest.com/uk
24 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | PROMOTING YOURSELF
MARKETING & ADVERTISING
HOW TO SELL YOURSELF! Identify yourself
OK, so you’ve taken the big step of setting up your own business. There’s so much to think about in terms of getting tools, equipment, buying materials and getting your company accounts sorted. But don’t forget one of the most important things which is advertising for customers!
It’s worth investing time – and a little money – in creating an eye catching logo. This is your brand identity, and if you can come up with something different then customers will certainly remember you! If you’re not creative, then perhaps a friend can help. Or there are a mass of websites out there with people who will create logos for you. Check out fiverr.com for an example.
Shout about it
TOP TIPS
Word of mouth is probably one of the major ways you’ll get business in the future, but when starting out you’ll need to be a bit more creative. But don’t worry, advertising doesn’t have to cost a fortune and here are three ways to reach your potential customers in a cost efficient way.
GET A SNAZZY LOGO FOR YOUR BUSINESS CARD
You’ll probably have a van, so make it work for you. Use your vehicle as free advertising media. You’ll be driving around, parked outside customers’ houses, and also your van might be parked outside your house at night. There’s a huge choice of ways to put your logo and contact details on the van, from simple right up to whole vehicle wrapping. But whatever you do make sure it says what your business does! Don’t assume people will automatically know.
USE YOUR VAN AS FREE ADVERTISING MEDIA
“It’s worth investing time – and a little money – in creating an eye catching logo. This is your brand identity...” Leaflets and business cards
Think about where your potential customers might visit and either pin a leaflet or business card up in there. For example, advertising in a local post office window can be a cheap option. Other places to consider might be a local newsagent or hardware store, or any type of local shop. Business cards will also be useful for leaving with customers. Finally, there are lots of places to advertise, but yellow pages and newspapers can be expensive. Have a look at local publications such as village newsletters which will target your local area and be cheaper to advertise in.
GET SOME CARDS PRINTED WITH YOUR LOGO & CONTACT DETAILS
THINK LOCAL – LOOK WHERE YOU CAN ADVERTISE IN SHOPS & LOCAL NEWSLETTERS
Get ahead. Get online. With over 1.2 million views and 60 videos, our YouTube channel shows how installing our showers, enclosures and trays is quick, simple and hassle free.
To view our latest ‘step by step’ installation videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel visit: www.youtube.com/mirashowers
26 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | STEP-BY-STEP
KINEMAGIC KINEMAGIC RECESSED WALK-IN CUBICLE The Kinemagic walk-in shower cubicle has been designed by shower brand, Kinedo (part of the Saniflo group), as a direct replacement for a 1700 bath. This step-by-step guide illustrates how a Kinemagic can be easily and intuitively installed in the space previously occupied by a bath to offer a luxurious showering solution. 0208 842 0033 kinemagic.co.uk
01
02
Make ready the area for the new shower unit by removing the previous installation.
Ensure floor area is level for the shower tray. The Kinemagic anti-slip tray is 1600mm wide and requires a minimum of 35mm all round to accommodate the pipework and fittings in a 1700mm space. A 1700 tray requires 35 mm all round. Install tray directly on to floor surface and bed down. There are optional legs available with the shower tray if extra height is required.
03
04
Mark up for wall panel brackets, drill and affix to wall.
Take the first opaque glass interior panel. This accommodates the modern shower valve and fittings (which are supplied as part of the Kinemagic package) and affix all fittings including the trims. Slot the panel into the grooves of the shower tray (this provides a leak free fitting) and fix using the bolts and washers to the frame and fixing bracket.
STEP-BY-STEP | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 27
INSTALLATION GUIDE 05
06
The second panel has pre-drilled holes to accommodate a seat fitting. If the seat is required then fix to this panel. If not required then use the cover caps supplied to plug the holes. This sits to the rear of the cubicle area along with the third large opaque panel. Both should be installed as per step 3.
The fourth internal opaque side panel accommodates a high quality grab rail to facilitate easy access in and out the shower cubicle and is installed as above.
07
08
Now is time to fit the front clear glass panel to the valve panel. Once in place fit the top rail and seals and bottom fixing.
If a door has been specified as part of the package fix the sleek chrome handle to the door and install the door using the three sets of rollers to the top rail, fit door magnets and adjust if needed.
09
10
FINISHING TOUCHES: Now fix the shower head, hose and handset in to place, press on all the high quality screw head covers and hang the chrome and glass shelves over the back panel. Fix stops to the top rail to impede door banging. As part of the Kinemagic package two infill panels are supplied to fill the gap between cubicle and wall. Cut and install as required for a seamless finish to the edge of the walls.
Your silicone free, grout free and leak free Kinemagic cubicle is now ready for use.
Panels sit over groves of tray - no leaks!
The high quality tempered 8mm door panel and the 6mm glass panels are coated with Cristal Plus for durability and ease of cleaning and will stay looking great for longer.
28 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | PUZZLE TIME
JUST FOR FUN! PLUMBERS AT THE MOVIES Test your knowledge of famous plumbers on the silver screen with our fun quiz. Victor Moore starred as a plumber in which 1955 film? a) b) c) d)
Q2.
Q3.
a) b) c) d)
Q6.
Q7.
Popeye Mickey Mouse Super Mario Scooby Doo
Roy Kinnear George Cole Johnny Briggs Angus Lennie
A bit of a difficult one this, but which film, released in 2005, told the story of a fat Danish plumber who marries a Chinese lady for convenience? a) b) c) d)
Q8.
Charlie Chaplin Buster Keaton John Barrymore Harold Lloyd
Which stock British actor found his new plumbing invention mistaken for a secret weapon in the 1952 classic Top Secret? a) b) c) d)
Henry Fonda Glenn Ford Christopher Plummer Tony Curtis
What was the name of the spinach eating cartoon character who flooded New York City when trying to fix a faucet in the 1960 classic toon Plumbers Pipe Dream?
Elmer Tuttle is one of the most famous on-screen plumbers. Who portrayed him in ‘The Passionate Plumber’? a) b) c) d)
Marshall P Knutt Johnny Finger Olsson Johnsson Charlie Muggins
Who played the title role in the 1968 film The Boston Strangler, a film celebrating the life of plumber gone bad Albert deSalvo? a) b) c) d)
Q4.
The Day The World Ended The Man With The Golden Arm The Seven Year Itch The Tender Trap
In Carry On Cowboy, Jim Dale played a plumber mistaken for a lawman. What was the name of his character in the film? a) b) c) d)
Q5.
Kinamand Fiskerne Ser Man Det Dags Dato
And finally, this plumber became an actor, was paid to be fat and died at the age of 46. Who was he? a) b) c) d)
Roscoe Fatty Arbuckle Marlon Brando William Conrad Eugene Palette
ANSWERS: 1. c) The Seven Year Itch, 2. a) Marshall P Knutt, 3. d) Tony Curtis, 4. a) Popeye, 5. b) Buster Keaton, 6. a) Roy Kinnear, 7. a) Kinamand, 8. a) Fatty Arbuckle
Q1.
Some merchants supply heating spares.
Some merchants supply genuine heating spares. A range of over 120,000 genuine heating spares can be ordered from any Graham branch. Visit grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk for more information.
You get more from Baxi on our free hands-on product training days* Hands-on Nest product training Technical Pack (including fault finding information) Additional Baxi branded items
Contact us to find a course at your local Baxi training centre and receive practical hands-on training, delivered by experts.
0844 848 8281
baxi.co.uk/training *
Free product training is only available to Gas Safe registered engineers.
046718_Baxi Training ad_117x161_Newly Qual Installer.indd 1
COMPETITION WINNERS! In the last issue of NQI there was a chance to win a Ridgid Laser Distance Meter and also a backpack of Vokèra goodies! Congratulations to Quinn Ransley who won the Ridgid prize, and also to Darren Bairstow who was the winner of the Vokèra backpack. Well done!
03/08/2015 11:07
REGS UPDATE | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 31
GREEN DEAL FUNDING COMES TO AN END With Green Deal funding coming to a close in July this year, it is understandable that there will be some initial confusion – for both installers and consumers - as to where they stand with installations. Here, Paul Burnett, Renewables Category Manager from Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant looks at what has been learned from the Green Deal and what newly qualified installers need to be aware of.
Introduced in 2013, the Green Deal was a way of enabling people to finance energy-efficiency home improvements through a loan paid back via savings made on energy bills. Now that funding has closed however, it is reasonable to expect that there will be questions, particularly for those installers who have only recently qualified and entered the industry, when it comes to carrying out works already approved.
Existing Green Deal plans For any homeowners that already have a Green Deal plan in progress, the cuts will not affect work being carried out. In addition, any householders that have Green Deal Home Improvement Fund (GDHIF) vouchers can still use them too, although it is important to remember that these are only valid for a six-month term once issued. For Green Deal installers, this does of course mean that there will be a number of installations that still need to be completed over the coming months, with the majority of works likely to be started before the end of the year, before any GDHIF vouchers that have already issued, become invalid.
grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk Continued on page 32
32 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | REGS UPDATE
Energy Company Obligation It is worth pointing out that the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) will not be affected by the demise of the Green Deal and those installers that are Green Deal accredited will be able to carry out ECO installations, until March 2017, when this scheme is set for revision. For those unfamiliar with the principles of the scheme, ECO is a funding stream that initially ran in conjunction with Green Deal. Major energy companies are obligated by the Government to provide funding for energy saving installations, in order to meet carbon reduction targets and help vulnerable householders reduce their fuel bills.
Newly qualified installers Of course, for newly qualified installers, there is still much to be learned and indeed implemented
from the core principles of the Green Deal and ECO when it comes to energy efficient installations. It is with this in mind that the good work done by the Green Deal should be embraced, with installers being prepared to educate their customers as to the benefits of ‘upgrading’ to more energy efficient solutions as a result.
With these changes still relatively new to the industry – the close of the Green Deal itself was only announced on 23rd July - it is understandable that newly qualified installers will require additional
“Graham Plumbers’ Merchant is well versed with all aspects of the Green Deal’s requirements...” information and assistance. Graham Plumbers’ Merchant for example is well versed with all aspects of the Green Deal’s requirements, in addition to wider energy efficient installations, and is on hand to provide advice to installer customers who may be about to take on a Green Deal or ECO installation in the coming weeks.
For speed, ease and reliability.
It must be Hep2O. Demounting made easy with the handy HepKey.™
Hep2O comes with the longest guarantee in the industry.
Secure joint recognition with In4sure™ technology.
Comprehensive range of fittings to suit every job.
Anything else is just a fitting.
www.hep2o.co.uk
34 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | CASHFLOW
CASHFLOW IS KING!
HERE’S OUR GUIDE TO THE TOP TIPS FOR MAINTAINING A HEALTHY
1. SET YOURSELF TARGETS It might sound tedious, but write down how much money is coming your way in the next week, month or year even and how much you’ll have to spend in that same period. That way you’ll be able to spot any problems before they happen.
5. USE TECHNOLOGY Technology can make your life much easier when managing your cashflow. You can choose to set everything out on a basic spreadsheet, or take a look at some of the accounting software packages on page 11 which are aimed at small businesses. You can prepare professional looking invoices from them, track supplier payments and best of all produce reports for VAT, accounting or banking purposes at the touch of a button.
2. AGREE CLEAR PAYMENT TERMS Be firm with your customers and make your payment terms clear up front. Put them on any quotes and invoices, and chase any late payments. If you don’t tell the customer what to expect, then don’t expect them to pay you promptly.
6. DON’T FOCUS ON PROFIT! A common reason for early business failure is that people focus on profit and not cashflow. If you’ve got cash coming into the business then you’ll have profit. A good cashflow is essential. On paper it might look as if you’ve had a profitable month with lots of jobs, but if you haven’t been paid then the business won’t survive.
CASHFLOW | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 35
NOUN: cashflow
1. the total amount of money being transferred into and out of a business, especially as affecting liquidity. Or in other words, how much cash you or your business has in the bank available to spend. It doesn’t take a genius to work out you need more money coming into your business than going out to generate cashflow. Without cash you can’t buy any tools or materials, pay staff or yourself, or run your business.
CASHFLOW IN ORDER TO KEEP ON TOP OF YOUR FINANCES.
3. INVOICE STRAIGHT AWAY You can take matters into your own hands by invoicing as soon as the job is done. Ask the customer if you can email your invoice to get it in their hands quicker. If you wait a month before invoicing, then you’re going to have to wait an extra month for your money – and you will probably have bought materials which will need to be paid for in that time.
7. GET SOMEONE TO HELP YOU Larger businesses will have whole accounts departments to monitor their cashflow – making sure it stays liquid. If you’re a startup business consider getting a member of your family or partner to take control of the books and monitor the cashflow for you. Sometimes it works better if someone else can chase up late payments and do the banking, leaving you free to get on with the practical work.
4. MAKE LIFE EASY FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS Offer a choice of payment methods, but avoid being paid by cheque as it means a delay before the money clears into your account. And there’s always a risk that a cheque might bounce or be stopped – which is all extra hassle for you. Offering online payments is a better, quicker and easier option for both you and the customer.
8. TALK TO YOUR BANK Many banks offer free advice for small businesses – and they’ve been doing it for years so they should know what they’re talking about. They can also help with overdrafts or credits for new businesses. Talk to your bank if you encounter a major payment problem – they may be able to help. Not talking to them could mean an unauthorised overdraft which can work out expensive.
36 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | PUZZLE CORNER
FAMOUS PLUMBERS Rumour has it that awardwinning actor and national treasure – Michael Caine – worked as a plumber’s assistant. This was after his Korean War service and before he went into acting full time. Wonder whether he would have said to his customers ‘my name is ….’
?
TEA BREAK
TIME 1
2
3
?
4 5
6
DID YOU KNOW? Apparently the average person spends three whole years of their life sitting on the toilet. We hope you brought a good book.
7
8
9
10
11 12 13
?
14
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OVER OR UNDER?
ACROSS
DOWN
3 Useful for catching and carrying rainwater 4 Heat exchangers are often made of this (2 words) 7 Liquid which is the condensed flue gas 10 Usually white and hanging on the wall to provide room heat 12 Type of renewable fuel from trees 15 Boiler manufacturer in the West Midlands
1 Type of insurance you’ll need in business (2 words) 2 Type of heating where the pipework is under your feet 5 Registration body for oil 6 Monitors and controls temperature 8 You probably drive around in one of these 9 Providing hot and cold water 11 Section of the building regulations which deals with energy efficiency (2 words) 13 The part of the boiler which provides the heat 14 Useful for practical jobs
Answers (hope you didn’t peek before you finished!) ACROSS: 3.Gutter, 4.Stainless Steel, 7.Condensate, 10.Radiator, 12.Biomass, 15.Worcester DOWN: 1.Public Liability, 2.Underfloor, 5.OFTEC, 6.Thermostat, 8.Van, 9.Taps, 11.Part L, 13.Burner, 14.Drill
It’s the classic bathroom debate. Do you put your toilet paper on the holder the flap hanging in front or underneath? The choice is largely a matter of personal preference, dictated by habit. In surveys of US consumers, 60–70% of respondents prefer over. Besides orientation, toilet paper manufacturers have asked other important questions such as how much is used; whether it is torn off with one hand or two; whether it is torn off right-to-left or left-to-right; and whether it is crumpled or folded before use. Fascinating!
There’s smart. And then, there’s vSMART™.
Smart just got a whole lot smarter. The new Vaillant vSMART™ allows your customers to control their heating and hot water anytime, anywhere, from one easy-to-use app. Designed to work in perfect harmony with the current range of ecoTEC domestic boilers, vSMART™ features tailored time and temperature profiles which ensure the boiler is always working at its peak performance. With a fitting time of as little as 25 minutes, vSMART™ is best for your schedule, as well as your customers’ energy bills. Visit www.vaillant.co.uk to find out more.
The good feeling of doing the right thing.
vaillantuk vaillantuk 2015
vaillantuk
Heating
Hot water
Renewables
Vaillant and vSMART™ are registered trademarks of Vaillant GmbH
Because
thinks ahead.
38 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | RENEWABLES
GETTING REAL S E L B A W E N E R T U O AB Probably one of the biggest things to revolutionise the heating industry over the last few years has been the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive. The non-domestic scheme was the first to be introduced, whereby businesses could qualify for incentives in return for switching to renewable forms of energy. This was followed by the introduction of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) which was launched in April 2014. The idea behind the government funded RHI is to encourage the UK as a whole to switch to renewable sources of energy, thereby meeting both European and worldwide targets for lowering our carbon emissions.
Households which apply and qualify for the scheme will receive quarterly payments for seven years, making renewables an attractive option for many consumers. The Energy Saving Trust website provides a useful, consumer friendly source of information for your customers.
Who can apply for RHI? Owner-occupiers, self-builders, private landlords and registered providers of social housing Single domestic dwellings RHI support is not available to new build properties (other than self-build projects).
Which renewable technologies are covered? Biomass boilers Pellet stoves with integrated boilers providing space heating (woodburners are not included) Ground source heat pumps Air source heat pumps Solar thermal panels All systems must also be listed on the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive product eligibility list which can be found on the OFGEM website. You must use an eligible product to qualify for the RHI, which will be accredited by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, but some products like biomass boilers will also require an emissions certificate – you can check this online at www.rhieclist.org.uk
“Households which apply and qualify will receive quarterly payments for seven years...”
RENEWABLES | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 39
MCS Installers To qualify for RHI payments, householders must use both an MCS approved product and an MCS accredited installer. Many of the competent person organisations run MCS schemes alongside their existing ones. If you want to become an MCS approved installer it could open up a whole new area of business for you – and one which is growing.
How do people apply for RHI? The application process has been designed to be fairly straightforward and can be
completed online via OFGEM’s website. If the application is fairly simple you’ll get an immediate decision, or if it’s more complicated with a lot of information required it may need a manual review. The OFGEM website is really useful in terms of information on this.
Useful information from:
energysavingtrust.org.uk ofgem.gov.uk microgenerationcertification.org rhieclist.org.uk
WHICH SCHEME IS BEST FOR ME?
There’s a choice of schemes offering MCS Installer registration. Here are the ones which are listed on the MCS website. We’ve also included the contact details on pages 40-41 in case you want to get in touch with them to find out more. MICRO CHP
WIND TURBINES
SOLAR THERMAL
BIOMASS
HEAT PUMPS
APHC Certification Ltd Benchmark Certification Ltd
SOLAR PV
BRE Global Ltd
ELECSA
HETAS NAPIT
NICEIC
OFTEC
STROMA
40 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | CONTACTS
CONTACT DETAILS FOR THE MICROGENERATION CERTIFICATION SCHEMES FOR INSTALLERS aphc.co.uk info@aphc.co.uk 0121 711 5030
benchmark-cert.co.uk info@benchmark-cert.co.uk 02380 517 069
bre.co.uk microgeninstallers@bre.co.uk
12 The Pavilions Cranmore Drive Solihull B90 4SB
International House George Curl Way Southampton Hampshire SO18 2RZ
Bucknalls Lane Watford WD25 9XX
0333 321 8811
elecsa.co.uk enquiries@elecsa.co.uk 0333 321 8220
Mansfield Business Centre Ashfield Avenue Mansfield NG18 2AE
CONTACTS | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 41
hetas.co.uk info@hetas.co.uk 01684 278170
napit.org.uk info@napit.org.uk 0345 543 0330
niceic.com enquiries@niceic.com 0870 013 0382
oftec.org.uk enquiries@oftec.org 0845 65 85 080
stroma.com/certification info@stroma.com 0845 621 11 11
Severn House, Unit 5 Newtown Trading Estate Green Lane, Tewkesbury GL20 8HD
4th Floor , Mill 3 Pleasley Vale Business Park Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG19 8RL
Warwick House Houghton Hall Park Houghton Regis Dunstable LU5 5ZX
Foxwood House Dobbs Lane, Kesgrave Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 2QQ
4 Pioneer Way Castleford West Yorkshire WF10 5QU
42 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | HALL OF SHAME
HALL OF
Here’s the latest batch of bad installations for you to marvel at. It never ceases to amaze us how creative people can be with pipework. The vast majority of plumbers and heating installers do a great job, but here are some of the worst offenders that we’ve seen recently.
design t sure if this is a Hmmm. We’re no er! pp co of e us ive at statement or a cre
This work of art should su Tate Moder rely be in th n. It’s not fit e for anything else!
t the local merchan Err, we wonder if ow kits? had run out of elb
The householder must have requested ‘no pipework showing please’.
HALL OF SHAME | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | 43
. Spotted in Dartford ‘five fittings later.....’ We name this photo
Is that a per iscope I spy or is it a flue We’re not ev ? en going to mention th condensate e pipe…
with a smaller replace a radiator If you’re going to work and just pe ep the existing pi ke t no y wh e, on extension? add a nifty little
If in doubt, just use a w eensy little bit of si licone which should help seal it all up nice an d good!
If you’ve come across a dodgy installation, send your pictures to us and they could be featured on this page!
You can email us at editor@sng-publishing.co.uk A big thank you to our friends at Bad #Plumbing for supplying us with so many great photos. Pop along to their facebook page to have a look at more! /Badplumbing?fref=ts
44 | NQI AUTUMN 2015 | PUZZLE TIME
JUST FOR FUN! See if you can find these words in amongst our topical wordsearch!
G
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> CISTERN
> QUALIFIED
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> COLD
> RENEWABLE
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> ESTIMATE
> SANITARY
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> FITTINGS
> SIPHON
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> HOT
> SUPPLY
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> LEGISLATION
> TRAINING
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> MERCHANT
> VESSEL
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> MULTIMETER
> WATER
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> PLUMBING
> WATERPRESSURE
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COMING E U S S I NEXT
WINTER ISSUE 2015 DUE OUT MID DECEMBER
Look out for more great features in the next issue of Newly Qualified Installer:
Trade bodies Training and CPD Start up grants and support for your business
Insurance
We’ll also be featuring our regular mix of news, interviews, new products and competitions.
LOOK OUT FOR YOUR COPY. IF YOU’RE READING SOMEONE ELSE’S, THEN GET YOUR OWN! REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE COPY OF NQI ON THE SUBSCRIBE PAGE AT HIPMAGAZINE.CO.UK
CONNECT WITH CONFIDENCE
Look at the PLUS points Market leading Push-Fit System Tectite tube - the worlds first flexible metal tube in sizes 15mm and 22mm Tectite tube - combines the advantage of copper and plastic systems Reduces number of fittings used by up to 40% Installed cost savings - joints made in a fraction of the time Heat-free. No hot works Rotatable joint - makes working in confined spaces easier Superb quality manufacture
BENDING THE RULES OF PLUMBING FOR A PLUMBING SYSTEM THAT COMBINES THE BEST OF COPPER AND PLASTIC - CHOOSE TECTITE
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