Since its introduction in 1993, the Chartered Building Company and Consultancy scheme has gone from strength to strength, and now over 440 firms from all over the world are a part of it. The scheme was developed to benefit both companies and consultancies of all sizes in the construction sector. So how does the scheme work and how can it support your business?

The CBC scheme provides its members with validation that their business is managed professionally and meets ethical codes, allowing them to be recognised as a trusted resource by clients. This, in turn, raises the company’s profile and boosts their reputation, helping them to win new business and strengthen existing client relationships. Chartered organisations can use the CBC logo to promote their business and add their details to the online directory. This elite directory is accessible to anyone and can be found on the CIOB website. 

The scheme considers two types of organisation, Chartered Building Companies and Chartered Building Consultancies. Companies are characterised as organisations that are involved in physically carrying out building work, whereas consultancies are related to the construction process e.g. architects and surveyors. There are some key requirements that need to be met in order to become a CBC. At least half of the board directors need to be Chartered and at least 25% should be Members or Fellows of CIOB. Also, the company or consultancy must have been trading for at least two years.

So now you know the main requirements and what the scheme can do for your organisation, how can you apply? The application process is very straightforward. A short webform can be completed online, which will ask you to provide basic information about yourself and your company or consultancy. You will then receive an application form as an editable PDF to complete. You will need to provide some policies and statements on certain areas like Health and Safety, Equal Opportunities, and Environmental Performance. We also ask for references from clients and the supply chain. 

To apply to become a Chartered Building Company or Consultancy, fill in the appropriate form below:

• Chartered Building Company: https://www.ciob.org/webform/forms-become-chartered-building-company
• Chartered Building Consultancy: https://www.ciob.org/webform/forms-become-chartered-building-consultancy

By becoming a CBC you are not only helping your business standout, you are also helping the industry set new standards of professionalism. Get in touch with us if you would like to know more.