Essential CDM 2015 Regulatory Guides UK for Construction Projects

"It's only a small job. CDM doesn't apply to us." One of the most persistent myths in UK construction — and there is no size threshold that removes your client duties.

Regulation 4 of CDM 2015 is four paragraphs long. Most clients have never read it. Those four paragraphs create the entire framework of client duty under the regulations. And they are more demanding — and more specific — than most clients realise.

"We're a domestic client — so the regulations don't really affect us." Not quite. CDM 2015 does treat domestic clients differently. But the regulations don't disappear. They transfer.

When did you last properly check the competence of a contractor — not just their insurance certificates and CSCS cards? Regulation 8 of CDM 2015 requires every duty holder to take reasonable steps to verify the skills, knowledge, experience, and organisational capability of those they appoint.

One of the most common questions we get asked is: "We've appointed a CDM consultant — are we covered now?" The short answer is no.

The Principal Designer is the most misappointed role in CDM 2015. Either it is not appointed at all. Or it is appointed too late. Or it is appointed to someone without the skills and influence to perform it effectively.

Since CDM 2015 came into force, there have been over 190 prosecutions under the regulations — resulting in more than £16 million in fines. More than 5% have been brought against clients specifically, under Regulation 4.

The Golden Thread is a client responsibility. Most clients think it belongs to the contractor. Under the Building Safety Act, it is the live record of building safety information across the building's life.

When the Principal Contractor is on site, many clients assume their CDM exposure is covered. It is not.

"I didn't know I had any CDM duties." We hear it on almost every first call with a new client. If you commission construction work, CDM 2015 makes you a duty holder. There is no opt-out.