Considerate Constructors Scheme has launched a strengthened, modernised checklist and scoring model, introducing a clearer and more consistent framework for assessing responsible construction across the UK and Ireland
Guided by extensive consultation with contractors, monitors, clients, and subject-matter experts, and further strengthened through testing in a pilot project, the checklist introduces 24 defined themes for responsible construction.
The themes are aligned with CCS’s three primary pillars: Community, Environment, and Workforce.
Desiree Blamey, managing director for the Considerate Constructors Scheme, explained: “This update is an evolution, not a revolution, 90% familiar, 10% new.
“However, this vital 10% brings greater clarity, transparency and consistency for everyone who uses it, making it clearer and easier to apply and giving every organisation, from principal contractors to specialist supply chain contractors, a more consistent, evidence-based framework.”
Greater transparency for more responsible construction
“The new checklist is supported by a fairer scoring model that helps teams track progress and drive continuous improvement. Our focus remains the same: strengthening outcomes for communities, the environment and the workforce,” Blamey said.
The new model replaces the former 27‑question structure and adopts a percentage‑based scoring system, ensuring equal weighting across all three areas and enabling greater transparency, consistency and comparability across construction sites of all types and sizes.
More than 7,300 sites are assessed under the Scheme each year.
From 5 May 2026, CCS’s nationwide network of monitors will begin using the updated Code and Checklist, supported by a refreshed digital ecosystem designed to make participation clearer and simpler for more responsible construction.
Expectations beyond compliance
The update strengthens alignment with client expectations, public sector priorities and wider industry needs, while continuing to set expectations that go beyond compliance by embedding key considerations such as safety, social value, progressive employment standards, environmental preparedness and inclusivity.
It also strengthens alignment with recognised industry frameworks, including clearer links to environmental and social criteria widely used in BREEAM assessments.
BREEAM has been engaged throughout the development process, and a new score‑mapping guide will be published.
Themes mirror responsible construction practices
The checklist has also been designed with an ISO‑ready structure, with themes and expectations that mirror the approach used, making it easier for organisations to align CCS evidence with existing quality, environmental and health and safety accreditations.
The refinements also improve alignment with recognised Social Value reporting frameworks, making outcomes easier to measure, evidence and compare for clients and contractors.
Safety and wellbeing support for workers
A sharper focus on skills, employment standards and workforce pathways reflects the sector‑wide skills challenge, while strengthened mental health expectations – including Lighthouse Charity information visible on every site – reinforce CCS’s commitment to wellbeing.
New UV protection guidance supports safer outdoor work when UVI levels exceed 3, and clearer expectations for supply‑chain collaboration help align subcontractors, suppliers and clients around consistent standards.
Practical, behaviour‑focused expectations on harassment and inclusivity set a stronger baseline for respectful, fair and professional working environments.
Blamey concluded: “We shaped this update with the people who use it every day. By listening to contractors, monitors, clients and the communities we serve.
“We’ve kept the heart of the checklist intact while making it more practical for teams on the ground. Ultimately, this evolution is about people, recognising good work, supporting safer and more inclusive practices and helping the whole industry continue to raise responsible construction standards.”
More information, including the full checklist, guidance documents and digital tools, is now available on the CCS website.
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