Since you seem otherwise keen on him, it might be worth your while to ask him to clarify what he means by "going through the NICEIC process". It could be that he's on the very verge of being a member of their 'self-certification scheme', awaiting just some formalities to be finalised.This is why I went to rated people, and this person had 30-odd positive recommendations. However, that all important certification appears to be missing! It's odd because he did talk about certifying the work when it's done and submitting to building control etc. Anyway, I'm sure I know someone who knows someone!
Kind Regards, John