DOES CHARTERED STATUS ACTUALLY MATTER IN CONSTRUCTION?
Chartered. It is a term that appears on websites, email signatures, and tender submissions across the construction industry – but what does it mean, and does it really matter?
With the Building Safety Act demanding greater competence across the construction supply chain, chartered status is more important than ever. Applicable to individuals and companies, it is not a vague mark of respectability or a marketing tactic – it is an independently verified guarantee of professional excellence.
Earned, not given
Across the construction industry, there are several professional bodies that can award chartered status. For builders and construction managers, the most relevant is the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). To achieve chartered membership, individuals must follow a structured study programme designed to rigorously test their competencies.
For a company to become CIOB chartered, it must prove it is run by experienced, qualified managers committed to professionalism, integrity and accountability. At least half the board must hold chartered membership and every employee involved in managing construction is required to hold, or be actively working towards, appropriate qualifications. Continuous professional development (CPD) is essential, as is a company-wide commitment to the CIOB Code of Professional Conduct and to ensure employees are competent for their role.
Importantly, once earned, chartered status must be maintained. CIOB chartered companies are reassessed every five years across seven key areas:
- Governance
- Transparency and accountability
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Quality management
- Health, safety and wellbeing
- Environmental sustainability
- Training and development
Appointing with confidence
For clients, this robust process matters. Evaluating different construction partners in a competitive market can be challenging, particularly when investing in a new build home or refurbishment. Credentials, testimonials and case studies are all vital, but chartered status provides an extra layer of reassurance. Clients can appoint a contractor with confidence that the firm and its employees are held accountable by an independent body, which sets strict membership requirements, monitors conduct and champions best practice.
At Thames & Newcastle, we gained chartered status in 2011 and those principles are embedded in our culture. Our commitment to competence, continuous learning, and professionalism runs from our directors through to every member of our growing team. When clients engage with us, they are not just appointing a firm with strong credentials, they are appointing qualified individuals who take their responsibilities seriously and pride themselves on achieving the highest standards.
Internally, chartership also sets a tone. It signals our people are committed to their profession, not just their job. We encourage this mindset from day one, ensuring all apprentices involved in construction management work towards chartered status. This builds a culture where quality and accountability are prioritised, translating into better outcomes at every stage of a project.
Our commitment
In an era of increased scrutiny across the construction industry, chartership is playing a vital role in raising the bar. We are proud of our chartered status and are committed to growing that expertise within our team. Every employee we support through the process becomes more informed, more accountable and better equipped to deliver their role. That investment in our people is ultimately an investment in the quality of service our clients receive.
To find out more about how our chartered status translates into better outcomes for your project, contact our team.