An independent framework describing what a professional building business looks like. Ten pillars, clear criteria, published in full and free to read.
20 questions • 2–3 minutes • Instant score • Free
How criteria are classified
Every criterion in the framework carries one of three classifications.
Core criteria normally expected to achieve Builder Standard Verified Professional status.
Processes that demonstrate stronger professional business management.
Processes associated with exceptionally well-managed professional contractors.
Required within Builder Standard does not necessarily mean legally required. It means required to satisfy the relevant Builder Standard verification criteria.
The framework
Assessment, audit and verification decisions are measured against these pillars. Nothing is hidden and nothing is weighted behind the scenes.
Trading name, business status and a contactable business address are confirmed.
A named responsible person is identified for the business.
Consistent professional presentation across quotations, website and correspondence.
Published business information pack issued to every prospective customer.
In-date public liability cover appropriate to the work undertaken, evidenced by certificate.
Employers’ liability cover held where staff are employed.
Professional indemnity cover where design or specification responsibility is taken.
Records of relevant competence, cards, registrations and training held for the team.
A documented annual competence and training review.
Every quotation is issued in writing with a described scope of works.
Exclusions, provisional sums, allowances, VAT position and validity period are stated.
The customer confirms understanding of the scope before the contract is signed.
Itemised pricing with clear optional items and comparison notes.
A written contract is agreed before work begins, covering value, payment terms and programme.
Cancellation rights, defects arrangements and a dispute route are set out in writing.
Responsibilities for access, welfare, statutory approvals and third-party works are defined.
Standard contract suite reviewed periodically with professional input.
Any deposit is proportionate and explained in writing.
Payments follow a written schedule tied to identifiable stages of work.
Invoices reference agreed stages and variations, with a running payment record.
A reconciled final account issued at completion.
Variations are recorded in writing and approved by the customer.
Price is agreed before the varied work is carried out wherever practical.
Effect on programme and contract value is recorded against each variation.
Live variation register visible to the customer throughout the project.
A written complaints procedure with response timescales is issued to every customer.
Decisions and instructions are confirmed in writing rather than agreed only on site.
Regular structured progress updates at an agreed frequency.
A defined escalation route so an unresolved complaint is reviewed by a named senior person.
Every complaint logged with date received, project reference, actions taken and date resolved.
A written response issued to the customer within the timescale published in the procedure.
A documented dispute-resolution procedure, including an independent route such as mediation or adjudication.
Client communication records retained for the life of the project and the defects period.
Resolution records kept and reviewed periodically to improve procedures.
Customer feedback collected and reviewed after every project.
Drawings, specifications and approvals are held in a single structured project record.
Dated photographic evidence is captured for key stages, including works later concealed.
Inspection information and client decisions are logged as the project progresses.
A Builder Standard Project Passport maintained live for every project.
Subcontractor identity and insurance are checked before starting on site.
Scope and terms are agreed in writing with each subcontractor.
Competence, certification and RAMS are held on file where appropriate.
Performance records maintained and used for an approved supplier list.
A joint snagging list is agreed and tracked to completion.
Statutory and specialist certificates are obtained and issued to the customer.
A handover pack with warranties, guarantees and operating information is provided.
Digital handover through a Project Passport with a stated defects procedure.
The free Builder Standard Assessment scores your business against the framework in a few minutes.
Check My Builder Standard ScoreThe Builder Standard is an independent, privately published framework. It is not a government scheme, statutory regulation or a British Standard, and it does not replace Building Control, statutory approvals or specialist certification.