Installing a ground source heat pump system does not usually need planning permission. If you live in a listed building or a conservation area, however, you should contact your council to check on local policy.

Building regulations apply, and installation should be carried out by a suitably qualified installer.

The equipment, installation and testing of the system must all comply with relevant standards detailed in the 'Low or Zero Carbon Energy Sources: Strategic Guide (LZC)' and 'Domestic Heating Compliance Guide'.

Building regulations also apply to other aspects of the work such as electrical installation and plumbing.

It is advisable to contact an installer who can provide the necessary advice, preferably one who belongs to either the Microgeneration Certification Scheme or the relevant Competent Person Schemes.

For detached houses all work must adhere to the building regulations set out in Approved Document L: Volume 1.

Ground source heat pumps transfer heat from the ground into a building to provide space heating and, in some cases, to pre-heat domestic hot water.