CONTRACTORS’ CORNER
BESA guide cuts through principal contractor confusion
T
he Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has published new guidance to address widespread uncertainty
surrounding the competence of principal contractors (PCs) under the Building Safety Act. The Guidance Framework for Principal Contractor Competence off ers a streamlined and standardised method for meeting PAS 8672 requirements, helping both clients and contractors navigate the complex landscape of building safety compliance. Until now, there has been no consistent
approach to assessing PC competence, leading to fragmented appointment processes, duplicated eff ort, and delays. PCs have also faced mounting pressure to demonstrate competence across their supply chains without a recognised format. BESA’s new framework, developed through extensive industry collaboration, aligns with BSI and ISO standards and cross-references the Build UK Common Assessment Standard. It enables organisations and individuals to defi ne
and evidence the Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviours (SKEB) required for the PC role, supported by practical examples and guidance. Rachel Davidson, BESA’s director of specialist
knowledge, said the guide responds to growing demand for clarity and consistency, especially as many potential PCs report being asked to provide repetitive and overly prescriptive pre-qualifi cation evidence. She emphasised that the framework helps users understand expectations, identify skills gaps, and gather documentation that supports their professional profi le, strengthening their position in tendering and compliance reviews. The guide also addresses a common challenge: the misapplication of PAS 8672 in requiring PCs to meet every element of the standard, regardless of project size or complexity. BESA’s framework breaks down SKEB and core functions into a practical solution for self-assessment and selection, off ering a structured route to compliance that avoids duplication and supports legal obligations.
It covers six major competence areas: legal and
contractual requirements, managing building work, planning and organising, supervision and quality, leadership and competence culture, and stakeholder and information management. It also off ers clients and duty holders a reliable method for appointing suitably qualifi ed individuals and fi rms, while reassuring regulators, insurers and public sector bodies with its transparent, evidence- based criteria.
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