Myth: Our Project Is Too Small for CDM 2015
- Paul Scanlon
- Jul 30
- 1 min read
"It's only a small job. CDM doesn't apply to us."
We hear this regularly. It is one of the most persistent myths in UK construction.
CDM 2015 applies to every construction project, without exception. There is no size threshold, no value threshold, and no duration threshold that removes your obligations as a client.
What changes with scale is the notification. Projects become notifiable to the HSE only when they exceed 30 working days with more than 20 workers simultaneously on site or 500 person-days. That threshold triggers the F10 notification requirement — nothing more.
For commercial clients, that means you still need to:
Make suitable arrangements for managing the project
Check the competence of those you appoint
Provide pre-construction information
Ensure a Construction Phase Plan is in place before work begins
On every project. Regardless of size.
The regulations do not distinguish between a £500k fit-out and a £50m development when it comes to fundamental client obligations. The scale of the project affects the proportionality of your arrangements — not whether they apply.
If you have been told your project is "too small for CDM", ask whoever told you to show you where in the regulations that exemption exists.
Spoiler: it doesn't exist.
Get your free Client Guide to CDM 2015 here: cdm2015.co.uk/resource-download
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