EcoDuct Market Update 20 April 2026
TICA warning on 'assumed competence' and EcoDuct compliance
The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) has issued a stark warning to the building services sector about what it describes as a persistent culture of “assumed competence” among contractors working on Higher Risk Buildings (HRBs).
The warning highlights growing concerns across the industry about installation quality, verification and compliance, particularly in projects falling under the Building Safety Act and the new HRB regime.
The same competency requirement applies to the choice of ductwork materials – are the materials that have been specified actually being installed, are they fit for purpose and does the installer have specialised training?
For building owners, developers, consultants and contractors, this reinforces the need for clear competence, verified systems, product alignment and reliable installation practices across building services.
Why this matters for ventilation and ductwork
Air distribution systems are critical elements of building services infrastructure, particularly in high-rise residential, healthcare and other Higher Risk Buildings.
Poor installation, poor material choice or poorly coordinated systems can affect energy performance, fire safety, compliance – environmental and building standards - and long-term building operation.
How EcoDuct supports competent delivery of HVAC ductwork
EcoDuct is designed not only for optimal performance and environmental compliance, but also to support consistent, verifiable installation standards.
⚙️Maximum offsite fabrication to support MMC
Ductwork, fittings and any cladding all fabricated offsite to optimise quality, consistency and the installation process.
🛠 Simple, controlled installation system
Engineered components reduce variability and help ensure consistent installation quality.
👷 Approved installer network
EcoDuct systems are delivered through trained EcoDuct Approved Installers familiar with the correct installation process.
📋 Clear technical documentation & QA Processes
Detailed installation guidance supports compliance, inspection, QA and sign-off.
🏢 Suitable for Higher Risk Buildings
Used in commercial, residential and public-sector projects where compliance and installation quality are critical.
🌱 High-performance ductwork
Supports efficient HVAC operation while contributing to low-carbon building services design.
Moving beyond “assumed competence”
As regulatory scrutiny increases under the Building Safety Act, the industry is moving toward demonstrable competence and documented installation standards.
EcoDuct supports this shift by providing a clearly defined system with trained installers and technical support throughout the project lifecycle.
Find out more about the EcoDuct Approved Installer programme