CIBSE Certification Ltd has recently completed a review of the future of the Software Verification Assessment (SVA) scheme and is providing an update on its position, including the implications for existing certificate holders and the wider industry.
Background and transition to CIBSE Certification
In January 2026, CIBSE informed clients that the SVA scheme management would transfer from the CIBSE Technical Team to CIBSE Certification Ltd, effective from February 2026.
This move was intended to streamline administration, strengthen governance and provide a more robust long-term framework for the scheme. CIBSE Certification operates internationally recognised certification schemes, is accredited by UKAS, and works in accordance with ISO standards including ISO 17021, ISO 17024 and ISO 17065.
At that time, clients were assured that all existing verification statuses, certificates, and documentation would remain valid, with no immediate action required.
Review of the SVA scheme
Following the transfer, CIBSE Certification undertook a detailed review of the SVA scheme. This included an assessment against international certification standards, governance and impartiality requirements, operational processes and market demand.
The review also considered the resourcing and investment required to align the scheme fully with certification requirements, alongside its long-term financial sustainability.
Decision on the future of the scheme
As a result of this review, CIBSE Certification has concluded that the SVA scheme is not commercially sustainable within a certification framework.
In particular, it was determined that significant additional investment would be required to bring the scheme in line with certification requirements and that it would not be possible to operate the scheme on a financially sustainable basis.
CIBSE Certification has therefore made the decision that no new SVA applications will be accepted.
The scheme will formally close upon the expiry of the last remaining certificate. Existing contracts with CIBSE will be honoured and any work already underway will be completed as agreed.
SVA certificates currently displayed on the CIBSE website will be removed from the register upon expiry.
What this means for industry users
CIBSE recognises that the SVA scheme has been widely used within the building engineering sector as part of procurement and due diligence processes, particularly in relation to software validation.
It acknowledges the importance of clarity and consistency across the market, especially where “SVA approval” has become a reference point in software selection and client discussions.
As the scheme is discontinued, it is important that industry stakeholders update their internal processes and communications accordingly. SVA certification will no longer be issued, and the scheme should not be referenced as an ongoing approval route in future procurement activity.
Industry communication and consistency
CIBSE is committed to ensuring that this transition is clearly understood across the wider MEP consultancy and client community, not only by certificate holders.
We recognise the importance of avoiding inconsistency in interpretation across the sector and are working to ensure that clear guidance is available to support clients, consultants, and software providers during this period of change.
Further updates will be provided where necessary to support clarity and consistency as the scheme fully phases out.
CIBSE would like to thank all organisations that have engaged with the SVA scheme over its lifetime. We recognise its contribution to supporting software assessment practices within the industry and appreciate the support received from stakeholders.
We remain committed to maintaining high standards in certification and to supporting the building engineering community through robust, transparent and internationally aligned frameworks.
For any queries relating to this update, please contact CIBSE Certification.