The construction and built environment sector continue to raise the bar on safety, transparency, and accountability – and the latest update to the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) is a clear sign of that progress.
Version 5, released by Build UK in July 2025, introduces a key shift that suppliers can’t afford to ignore: the Building Safety section is now mandatory for companies working in-scope of the Building Safety Act. If that applies to your business, you’ll need to meet this requirement or risk missing out on future opportunities.
What’s changed in CAS v5?
The most significant change is the transition of the Building Safety section from advisory to required. This update reinforces the sector’s shared responsibility to keep people and places safe while aligning with growing industry-wide expectations for improved organisational capability.
You’ll now be required to demonstrate how your business meets the duties set out in the Building Safety Act. This applies if you’re involved in:
- Erection or extension of buildings
- Renovation or structural alterations
- Ongoing maintenance
- Installation of safety-critical features
- Design or fitting of controlled services
And it’s not just about high-rise or ‘high-risk’ buildings – the Act applies more broadly than many businesses realise.
October 2025 deadline for some supply chains
Several Build UK contractor members will expect their supply chains to have completed the Building Safety section by 1st October 2025. If your clients include any of these contractors – or you plan to bid for new work – CAS compliance is no longer optional.
Other updates in Version 5
CAS v5 also strengthens expectations around:
- Corporate and professional standing
- Environmental responsibility
- Fairness, inclusion and respect (FIR)
As CAS becomes more widely adopted across both public and private sectors, these additions bring further alignment with emerging legislation, frameworks, and client priorities.
How Compliance Chain can help
Compliance Chain’s Supplier Membership offers a simple, guided route to CAS and SSIP certification – now including support for the new Building Safety section. Our platform makes compliance easy to manage, while also increasing your visibility with buyers across the sector.
If you want to stay competitive, certification isn’t just a checkbox – it’s a business advantage.
From tender pre-qualification to building trust with major contractors, your membership proves you meet the standards that matter most.
Ready to stay compliant and win more work?
Join hundreds of principal contractors and suppliers already using Compliance Chain to manage their compliance, projects and supply chains – all in one place: https://compliancechain.com/supplier-solutions/
With over 6 years in the construction industry (specifically compliance within construction), Luke is responsible for managing and overseeing the functionality of Compliance Chain’s Supplier Solution.
