How to save money with a PQS accreditation

Following recent client feedback, we would like to share information on PQS accreditation costs and where it stands in the current market.

PQS accreditation is the most competitive method for achieving SSIP accreditation. PQS can be used to obtain the majority of the SSIP umbrella group partners, such as CHAS and Safe Contractor, under their deem to satisfy scheme

We will explain all of the costs of achieving PQS accreditation and compare it to CHAS, one of the more popular alternatives.

Cost Comparison

CHAS have developed a membership-type offering. The cost of each type depends on how many people you employ.

Costs per annum: You must renew the membership each year.

CHAS accreditation costs

Save with PQS accreditation costs

The costs for PQS accreditation are:

The fees above are correct as of January 2025.

Training costs

In terms of training that is required to achieve the standard needed for assessment, this can vary depending on your activities.

The assessor will be looking to ensure all members of your workforce are trained for the task they are carrying out.

This can be an industry standard that is needed such as:

• Gas safe for gas engineers
• Level 3 NVQ in Electrical Installations
• CISRS Scaffolding Part 1 & 2 – Scaffolders

They will also look to ensure that refresher training is carried out such as tool box talks and eLearning is often required.

Courses that are often asked for include:

• Working at Height
• Manual Handling
• Asbestos Awareness

Competent person costs

Ensuring you have the right level of support and advice for your Health & Safety is a bit of a minefield and can be defined simply by the number of employees you have.

Less than 5 employees = Safety Advisor

This service is where you are offered support and advice when needed, this tends to be a one of payment where you will be given a service agreement, certificate and a CV to show the qualifications of the person who is providing you with the advice. Paperwork such as off the shelf risk assessments and risk assessment and Method statements would be provided on an as and when basis should you need them.

5 or more employees = Competent Person

This service is where you pay a monthly retainer fee for continued support and advice should you need it.  In this service you will be provided with a full Safety Management System including full Health & Safety Policy and Employee Handbook. A consultant will be on hand to provide advice and guidance should this ever be necessary.

Whilst not every company is black and white like this, the rule of thumb tends to be the details above. You may be asked by a client to prove you have a dedicated support for Health & Safety resource as well as a full health & safety policy.

Additional Information

If you still have more questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch, and we will be happy to help you achieve your accreditation.

CHAS Assessment Criteria (Explained for Contractors)

If you’re applying for CHAS, understanding the assessment criteria is key to passing the first time.

Quick Answer

• CHAS follows the same core criteria as all SSIP schemes
• You must show documented evidence, not just statements
• Most failures come from missing, outdated, or weak documents

CHAS sits under:

• SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement)

This means all SSIP schemes assess the same health & safety standards, reducing duplication across the construction industry.

Full CHAS Assessment Criteria

To achieve accreditation, your business is assessed against the following areas:

• Health & Safety Policy
• Arrangements (how safety is managed in practice)
• Occupational Health
• Behavioural Management
• Enforcement History
• Accident Reporting & Investigation
• Fleet Operations (if applicable)
• Competent Advice (corporate & construction)
• Drug & Alcohol Policy
• Training & Information
• Individual Qualifications & Experience
• Monitoring, Audit & Review
• Risk Assessments & Safe Systems of Work (RAMS)
• Workforce Involvement
• Cooperation & Coordination
• Welfare Provision
• Subcontractor Management
• Roles: Contractor / Principal Contractor / Designer
• To apply these correctly, follow our step-by-step guide to getting CHAS accreditation.

What CHAS Assessors Actually Look For

Here’s what matters in practice, not theory.

1. Health & Safety Policy

Your policy must:

• Be in the correct company name
• Be dated within the last 12 months
• Be signed by a director or a responsible person
• Clearly define roles and responsibilities

Learn more: How to structure your policy properly – How to Get CHAS Accreditation Step-by-Step

2. Arrangements (Your Safety Systems)

This is where many applications fail.

You must show working systems for:

• Accident reporting (including RIDDOR)
• Training and supervision
• Communication
• Risk assessments
• Monitoring and review
• Emergency procedures
• Asbestos awareness
• COVID-19 (where relevant)

Related guide: What Are Construction RAMS? A Simple Guide for UK Contractors

3. Occupational Health

You need evidence of:

• Awareness (toolbox talks, posters)
• Access to support for workers
• Training (e.g. mental health awareness)

4. Behavioural Management

CHAS expects:

• A documented behavioural safety approach
• Evidence that safe behaviours are promoted and monitored

5. Enforcement History

You must declare:

• Any HSE or Local Authority notices (last 5 years)
• Prosecutions (if any)
• Actions taken to prevent repeat issues

Important:
CHAS checks are independent, and non-disclosure can fail your application

6. Accident Reporting & Investigation

You need:

• A clear accident reporting procedure
• RIDDOR reporting systems
• 3 years of records, including:
  • Injuries
  • Dangerous occurrences
  • Occupational diseases
  • Incidents involving non-workers

Plus: evidence of corrective actions taken

Why Most CHAS Applications Fail

From experience, the biggest issues are:

• Outdated policies (over 12 months old)
• Missing RAMS
• No competent safety advisor
• Weak or generic documents
• No evidence (only statements)

Fix this early: Common Reasons CHAS Applications Fail (and How to Avoid Them)

How to Pass First Time

To succeed, your application must:

• Be complete
• Be current
• Be specific to your business
• Include clear supporting evidence

Simple Summary

CHAS is not about paperwork; it’s about proving your business can work safely. If you’re unsure where you might fall short, see the common reasons CHAS applications fail.

Enforcement Actions

Details of any enforcement notices (Prohibition, Improvement or Crown) or prosecutions served on your company in the last five years by the HSE or Local Authority and the remedial actions taken to prevent a recurrence. A prosecution or notice will not debar the business from registration, but a failure to declare one could – please note that CHAS will check the HSE public register of convictions.

Accident Reporting and Investigation

Supporting Information:

• Documented arrangements for the recording, reporting, and reporting of accidents (Including RIDDOR reportable accidents).

• Records of all RIDDOR-reportable and other incidents for at least the last three years, including remedial actions to prevent a recurrence.
• Records of any other accidents within the last three years, including the remedial actions to prevent a recurrence. The accident statistics for the last three years, incorporating the following categories: Health & Safety Assessment Guidance v1.0 (website) 05/07/2023 Uncontrolled document when printed Page 3 of 13 Classification: PUBLIC. Chas assessment standards
• Deaths
• Specified Injuries
• Over 3 days incapacitated
• Over 7 days Incapacitated
• Injuries to non-workers
• Occupational Diseases
• Dangerous Occurrences
• Gas Incidents

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the CHAS assessment criteria?

The CHAS assessment criteria are the health and safety standards used to check whether a contractor has suitable policies, procedures and evidence in place. They cover areas such as health and safety policy, competent advice, training, RAMS, accident reporting, workforce involvement, welfare and subcontractor management. How to Get CHAS Accreditation Step-by-Step

Is CHAS assessment criteria the same as other SSIP schemes?

Yes. CHAS follows the SSIP core criteria, meaning it assesses contractors against the same recognised health and safety standards as other SSIP schemes. This helps reduce duplication when contractors are pre-qualified for work.

What documents are needed for a CHAS assessment?

Typical documents needed for a CHAS assessment include a health and safety policy, risk assessments, method statements, training records, insurance certificates, accident reporting procedures, competent advice details, monitoring records and evidence of workforce communication.

What should a CHAS health and safety policy include?

A CHAS health and safety policy should be in the correct company name, signed by a director or responsible person, dated within the last 12 months, and clearly explain health and safety responsibilities across the business.

What does CHAS check under accident reporting?

CHAS checks that the business has documented arrangements for recording, reporting and investigating accidents, including RIDDOR-reportable incidents. Contractors may also need to provide accident records and corrective actions for the previous three years.

Does CHAS check enforcement notices?

Yes. CHAS asks contractors to declare any HSE or Local Authority enforcement notices or prosecutions from the last five years. A notice does not automatically prevent accreditation, but failure to declare one may cause problems with the application

Why do CHAS applications fail?

CHAS applications often fail because documents are missing, outdated, generic or not specific to the business. Common issues include unsigned policies, inadequate advice, weak RAMS, missing training records, expired insurance, and poor accident reporting procedures. Common Reasons CHAS Applications Fail

Can someone complete my CHAS assessment for me?

Yes. Seguro is a CHAS accreditation consultant who can prepare the required documents, complete the online assessment, upload evidence and respond to assessor queries on behalf of your business. Need help preparing your documents? Our CHAS support service can assist.

Done For You CHAS Accreditation Support – Get Approved First Time

CHAS support to get CHAS accreditation and avoid delays, confusion, or rejection…

You’re not alone. Most contractors struggle because CHAS isn’t just about having documents; it’s about properly proving compliance.

That’s where we come in.

Quick Answer

Our done-for-you CHAS support service handles your entire application, from documents to approval, so you pass the first time without the stress.

Why Most CHAS Applications Fail

Before working with us, most clients have already tried to apply on their own.

Here’s what typically goes wrong:

❌ Generic or incomplete Health & Safety policies
❌ RAMS that don’t reflect real work
❌ Missing training and competency evidence
❌ Inconsistent information across documents
❌ Slow or incorrect responses to assessors

The result: Returned applications, delays, and lost work opportunities.

What Our CHAS Support Service Includes

We don’t just “help”, we handle the entire process.

1. Full Document Creation

We create everything required to meet CHAS standards:

• Health & Safety Policy (tailored to your business)
• Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
• COSHH assessments (if required)
• Accident reporting procedures
• Training and competency records

No templates. Everything is built for your actual work.

2. Complete CHAS Application

We:

• Complete your CHAS submission
• Upload all documentation
• Ensure everything aligns with the CHAS assessment criteria

This is where most applications go wrong; we make sure yours doesn’t.

3. Assessor Query Management

Most applications get follow-up questions.

We handle:

• Additional evidence requests
• Document updates
• Assessor communication

Fast responses = faster approval.

4. Compliance Gap Fixing

Before submission, we identify and fix issues such as:

• Missing training records
• Weak RAMS
• Outdated policies
• Incorrect insurance

This is the difference between passing the first time and getting rejected.

How Fast Can You Get Approved?

With the right support:

Documents ready in as little as 5 working days
Most approvals within 1–2 weeks

Without support:

Applications can drag on for weeks or fail completely

How Much Does CHAS Support Cost?

The CHAS fee is typically:

£429 + VAT Standard level

But the real cost is:

• Time lost
• Failed submissions
• Delayed contracts

Our service saves you money by getting it right the first time.

Who This Is For

This service is ideal if:

✔ You’ve already been rejected
✔ You don’t have proper H&S documentation
✔ You don’t have time to deal with the process
✔ You need CHAS quickly to win wor

Not Sure Where You Are in the Process?

Start here:

• How to get CHAS accreditation step-by-step
  
• Common reasons CHAS applications fail
  
• CHAS assessment criteria explained

The Result You Get

✔ CHAS accreditation achieved
✔ Fully compliant documentation
✔ Confidence when dealing with clients
✔ Access to more contracts

This isn’t just about passing; it’s about being ready to take on new opportunities.

Client Feedback

AMS Contracting – Thank you for your assistance to date. We have received our certificate. Your help has been very much appreciated. Many thanks, Chris. 24th February 2026

Spinney Electrical – I would just like to thank you for all your help, patience & time. Finally!! Feeling relieved. Vicky 13th February 2025

Why Choose Seguro?

✔ 25+ years industry experience
✔ 100% success rate on CHAS applications (15+ years)
✔ 500+ applications completed every year
✔ Fixed fee — no hidden costs
✔ Fast turnaround

We act as your Competent Person, not just a consultant.

Get CHAS Approved First Time

Let us handle your CHAS application from start to finish.

• Speak to our team today
• Get your documents sorted
• Get approved fast

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CHAS support?

CHAS support is a Seguro service that helps contractors complete their CHAS accreditation by preparing documents, submitting the application and responding to assessor feedback to improve the chances of passing first time.

Do I need help with CHAS accreditation?

You can complete CHAS accreditation yourself, but many contractors choose Seguro support to save time and avoid mistakes. Help is especially useful if you are unfamiliar with health and safety requirements or have limited documentation.

What does CHAS support include?

Our CHAS support includes health and safety policy creation, RAMS preparation, training and insurance checks, completing the CHAS portal, uploading documents and managing assessor queries.

How long does CHAS accreditation take with support?

With professional support, most CHAS applications can be prepared and submitted within a few days, with assessment typically taking up to 10 working days, depending on the review process.

Why do CHAS applications fail without support?

CHAS applications often fail due to missing or outdated documents, weak risk assessments, inadequate advice, expired insurance, or insufficient training records. Support helps identify and fix these issues before submission.

Can a consultant complete my CHAS application for me?

Yes. A CHAS consultant, like Seguro, can manage the entire process, including preparing documents, completing the online application, uploading evidence, and responding to assessor feedback on your behalf.

Is CHAS support worth it?

CHAS support is often worth it for contractors who want to pass first time, reduce delays and focus on their business rather than managing complex health and safety documentation.

Do I need a competent health and safety advisor for CHAS?

If you employ five or more people, including subcontractors, you must have access to competent health and safety advice. Many contractors meet this requirement through outsourced CHAS support services.

Related CHAS Guides

• If you want to understand the process first, read our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.
• We help you meet the CHAS assessment criteria without delays or rework.
• You can also review the cost of applying for CHAS accreditation before getting started.

CHAS Renewal & CHAS Login: Complete Guide for UK Contractors

If you’re a contractor or construction business using CHAS for your SSIP accreditation, you’ll need to keep your certification renewed every year. Many businesses lose work because their CHAS accreditation expires, usually because the renewal process isn’t started early enough or login issues delay the submission.

If you’re applying for the first time, follow our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.

This guide covers exactly how to:

• Let Seguro complete the CHAS renewal for you. For a very small fee, we can take the pain away.
• Log in to the CHAS portal
• Start your CHAS renewal application
• Upload required evidence
• Avoid common renewal failures
• Stay compliant and win more work

STOP THINK

There is a quick way to renew your CHAS. We renew over 1,000 CHAS applications per year. We can do it for you. CALL 0800 031 5404 during office hours or complete the form on the link below:

Get your CHAS renewal within a few days with zero pain! from £300

CHAS renewal

You have to renew your CHAS accreditation every year.

The CHAS accreditation process reviews your company’s ability to perform your activities complying with Health & Safety every year.

Documentation is provided on recent jobs and processes you are working on at the time of application. As these could change within 12 months, CHAS has a process where each application is seen as new and lasts for 12 months.

CHAS assesses your Health & Safety, which is done remotely; you get access to an online portal once you have paid. Once everything is uploaded to the portal, you can submit it for approval.

The CHAS assessor will take up to 10 working days to reply to your submitted documentation with their findings.

Renewal costs

CHAS offers three membership packages with different levels of accreditation:

CHAS Standard

The entry-level package includes a health and safety assessment and SSIP accreditation. CHAS membership fees

CHAS Advanced

The mid-range package includes all the Standard package benefits, plus helps you achieve SSIP and PAS 91 accreditation. CHAS membership fees

CHAS Elite

The highest level of accreditation includes all the benefits of the other packages, plus access to the Common Assessment Standard. CHAS membership fees

How to renew your CHAS accreditation

To renew your CHAS membership, you can: 

1. Let Seguro do it for you or:
2. Log in to your MyCHAS portal
3. Review your current health and safety practices
4. Click Renew
5. Complete the renewal application
6. Pay the renewal fee
7. Submit your renewal application
8. Await the assessment results
9. Update your company records
10. Ongoing compliance depends on meeting the CHAS assessment criteria consistently.

If you can’t log in

Common issues:

• Wrong email linked to your CHAS account

• Password expired

• Account locked due to inactivity

• Renewal overdue

Fixes:

• Use “Forgot Password”

• Check the original registration email

• Contact CHAS support if your account is blocked

CHAS Renewal: What It Means

CHAS accreditation lasts for 12 months, after which you must renew to remain certified and visible to buyers.

A CHAS renewal involves:

• Updating your insurance documents

• Refreshing RAMS, policies, and training records

• Uploading evidence of compliance

• Completing the online assessment questionnaire

• Meeting any new CHAS requirements for that year

When to Start Your CHAS Renewal

CHAS recommends starting 6–8 weeks before your expiry date.

Why early renewal is essential:

• Insurance documents may need updating

• Training records may be outdated

• Missing documentation causes delays

• You risk losing tenders if your certificate lapses

Documents You Need for CHAS Renewal

Most contractors will need:

Mandatory

• Employers’ Liability Certificate

• Public Liability Certificate

• Health & Safety Policy

• Risk Assessments & Method Statements (RAMS)

• Training certificates (CSCS, CITB, Asbestos Awareness, etc.)

Depending on your work

• PUWER / LOLER evidence

• COSHH assessments

• SSOW (Safe Systems of Work)

• Subcontractor approval process

• First aid training

If anything expired since your last CHAS assessment, you must replace it before renewal.

Common CHAS Renewal Mistakes

Most renewals fail because of:

❌ Outdated insurance
❌ Missing RAMS
❌ No training evidence
❌ No subcontractor vetting system
❌ Outdated policies
❌ Not addressing changes in legislation

Fix these early, and your renewal will be smooth.

How to Make CHAS Renewal Easy

Many contractors outsource CHAS renewals because the documentation can be time-consuming. A consultant can help with:

• Completing the online assessment

• Uploading compliant evidence

• Creating missing documents

• Fixing non-conformities

• Managing the entire renewal on your behalf

If you struggle with CHAS, outsourcing saves time and prevents failed submissions.

Why CHAS Renewal Matters

Renewing CHAS accreditation helps you:

• Stay compliant with UK health & safety law
• Win more tenders
• Stay active on buyer platforms
• Build trust with clients
• Demonstrate competence and professionalism

If your CHAS expires, many contractors will no longer be eligible to work on certain sites.

Need Help With CHAS Renewal?

If you want fast, stress free CHAS renewal assistance, we can generate:

✔️ CHAS-ready RAMS
✔️ Updated safety policies
✔️ Subcontractor procedures
✔️ Compliance documents
✔️ Renewal checklists
✔️ CHAS explainer videos or PPTs
✔️ Lost your CHAS login

Need help getting approved? Our CHAS support service handles the full process for you.

MyCHAS Portal

You can use the MyCHAS portal to: 

• Manage your profile
• Monitor your accreditations
• Access exclusive benefits
• Upload supporting documentation
• Access accreditation documents and assessments
• Complete assessments and get feedback
• Update accreditation progress and download certificates

You should receive a renewal invitation email about four weeks before your membership expires. Use your CHAS login detail to start the process.

Related CHAS Guides

• If you’re applying for the first time, follow our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.
• Ongoing compliance depends on meeting the CHAS assessment criteria consistently.
• Our CHAS support service can manage your renewal for you.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to renew CHAS every year?

CHAS accreditation lasts for 12 months, so contractors must renew it every year to remain certified and visible to buyers.

When should I start my CHAS renewal?

You should start your CHAS renewal around 6 to 8 weeks before your expiry date. This gives you time to update insurance, training records, RAMS, policies and any other evidence before submission.

How do I renew my CHAS accreditation?

To renew CHAS, log in to your MyCHAS portal, review your current health and safety documents, complete the renewal application, pay the renewal fee, upload your evidence and submit the assessment for review.

What documents do I need for CHAS renewal?

Most contractors need updated insurance certificates, a health and safety policy, risk assessments, method statements, training certificates, accident reporting arrangements and evidence of safe working procedures. CHAS requirement checklist.

How long does CHAS renewal take?

Once your CHAS renewal has been submitted, the assessor can take up to 10 working days to review your documents and provide feedback or approval.

What happens if my CHAS accreditation expires?

If your CHAS accreditation expires, you may no longer be visible to buyers or eligible to work for clients who require current SSIP certification. This can delay tenders, site access and contract awards.

Why do CHAS renewals fail?

CHAS renewals often fail due to expired insurance, missing RAMS, outdated policies, insufficient training evidence, poor subcontractor procedures, or failure to address updated health and safety requirements.

Can someone complete my CHAS renewal for me?

Yes. Seguro can manage the renewal process for you by reviewing your documents, completing the online assessment, uploading evidence and responding to assessor queries.

CHAS vs Constructionline: Which Accreditation Do You Need? (2026 Guide)

Quick Answer

CHAS and Constructionline are both UK contractor accreditation schemes used to demonstrate health and safety compliance.

• CHAS focuses primarily on health & safety and SSIP compliance
• Constructionline combines health & safety with supplier verification, financial checks, and procurement tools
• If you’ve decided on CHAS, follow our step-by-step CHAS accreditation guide.

What is the Difference Between CHAS and Constructionline?

CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme)

• Health & safety focused
• SSIP accredited
• Recognised by public and private sector clients
• Often required for site access and contractor approval
• To understand how both schemes align, see our SSIP and CHAS explanation.

Best for:

• Contractors needing SSIP compliance
• Businesses working with main contractors or local authorities

Constructionline

• Broader pre-qualification platform
• Includes:
  • Health & safety (via SSIP at higher levels)
  • Financial checks
  • Company verification
• Acts as a supplier database for buyers

Best for:

• Contractors bidding for larger frameworks and tenders
• Businesses needing visibility to buyers

Key Differences (Simple Comparison)

Which One Do Clients Prefer?

It depends on the client:

• Main contractors / local authorities
  → Often ask for CHAS or SSIP
• Large frameworks/procurement platforms
  → Often specify Constructionline

Some clients accept either, as both align with SSIP standards

Cost Comparison (Overview)

• CHAS: Typically £400–£3,000+ per year
• Constructionline: Typically £498+ depending on level
• You can also review the typical costs of CHAS accreditation before deciding.

Costs vary based on:

• Business size
• Level of accreditation

Do You Need Both?

No one is enough

BUT:

• Some contractors choose both to maximise opportunities
• Certain clients specify one by name

When to Choose CHAS

Choose CHAS if you need to:

✔ Meet SSIP requirements
✔ Get approved for site work
✔ Demonstrate health & safety compliance
✔ Work with public sector or main contractors

When to Choose Constructionline

Choose Constructionline if you want to:

✔ Access procurement platforms
✔ Pass financial and supplier checks
✔ Bid for larger contracts
✔ Increase visibility to buyers

Pro Tip (Most Contractors Miss This)

All SSIP schemes (including CHAS and Constructionline )
follow the same core health & safety criteria

This means:

You may not need to duplicate applications.
You can often use one accreditation to support another

Final Thought

CHAS proves you are safe and compliant.
Constructionline helps you get found and win work

The best choice depends on:

• Your clients
• Your sector
• Your growth strategy

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between CHAS and Constructionline?

CHAS focuses mainly on health and safety compliance and SSIP accreditation, while Constructionline is a broader pre-qualification platform that includes financial checks, supplier verification and procurement visibility.

Is CHAS better than Constructionline?

Neither CHAS nor Constructionline is better overall. CHAS is better for demonstrating health and safety compliance, while Constructionline is better for accessing procurement opportunities and supplier databases. The right choice depends on your client’s requirements.

Do I need CHAS or Constructionline?

You may only need one accreditation, depending on your clients. Many contractors choose CHAS to meet SSIP requirements, while others choose Constructionline for tendering and visibility. Some businesses use both to maximise opportunities.

Is Constructionline SSIP accredited?

es. Constructionline Gold includes SSIP accreditation, meaning it meets the same core health and safety criteria as schemes like CHAS.

“Is CHAS part of SSIP?

Yes. CHAS is a founding member of SSIP and provides recognised health and safety accreditation that aligns with SSIP standards.

Which is cheaper, CHAS or Constructionline?

Costs vary depending on company size and level. CHAS typically costs from around £400 per year, while Constructionline starts from around £498 per year, with higher tiers costing more.

Can I have both CHAS and Constructionline?

Yes. Many contractors hold both CHAS and Constructionline to meet different client requirements and increase their chances of winning work.

Which accreditation do main contractors prefer?

Main contractors and local authorities often require CHAS or another SSIP scheme for health and safety compliance. Some larger frameworks and procurement systems may specify Constructionline.

Related CHAS Guides

• If you’ve decided on CHAS, follow our step-by-step CHAS accreditation guide.
• To understand how both schemes align, see our SSIP and CHAS explanation.
• You can also review the typical costs of CHAS accreditation before deciding.
• Need help getting approved? Our CHAS support service handles the full process for you.

SSIP Accreditation and CHAS: What UK Contractors Need to Know (2026 Guide)

If you’re a contractor trying to win work in the UK construction sector, you’ve likely come across SSIP accreditation and CHAS.

SSIP is the system. CHAS is one of the most recognised schemes within it.

If you want to work for main contractors, councils, or commercial clients, you’ll almost always need one of them.

If you’re applying through CHAS, follow our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.

What Is SSIP Accreditation?

Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) is an umbrella organisation that:

• Standardises health & safety assessments
• Reduces duplication across multiple schemes
• Ensures all member schemes assess the same core criteria

In simple terms: SSIP means “one standard, recognised everywhere.”

What Is CHAS?

CHAS (The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) is:

• One of the most widely recognised SSIP schemes
• Used by main contractors, developers, and local authorities
• A fast way to prove your business meets health & safety requirements
• How to get CHAS accreditation step-by-step

Quick Comparison

What Do SSIP & CHAS Actually Assess?

All SSIP schemes (including CHAS) assess the same core areas:

• Health & Safety Policy
• Competent Advice
• Training & Competence
• Risk Assessments & RAMS
• Accident Reporting
• Workforce Involvement
• Monitoring & Review
• Subcontractor Management
• Welfare & Communication

This is why: If you pass CHAS, you meet the SSIP standard.

Do You Need SSIP or CHAS?

You DO need it if you want to:

• Work for main contractors
• Bid for local authority or public sector work
• Access construction frameworks
• Get onto approved supplier lists
• Do you need CHAS accreditation as a UK contractor?

You may not need it if:

• You only work for domestic homeowners
• You don’t plan to enter commercial construction

But realistically, No SSIP = limited growth in construction

CHAS vs Other SSIP Schemes

CHAS is not the only option. Other SSIP schemes include:

• Constructionline
• PQS
• SMAS Worksafe
• SafeContractor

All assess the same standards, but:

• Some clients specify CHAS by name
• Others accept any SSIP-accredited scheme
• You may also benefit from CHAS Deem to Satisfy if you already hold SSIP certification.

Choosing the right one depends on:

• Your target clients
• Tender requirements
• Budget

How Much Does SSIP / CHAS Cost?

Typical entry-level costs:

• CHAS: from ~£429 + VAT
• PQS – £49 + VAT
• SMAS: from ~£317 + VAT
• SafeContractor: from ~£419 + VAT
• Constructionline Bronze: from ~£498 + VAT
• To compare options, see our CHAS vs Constructionline guide.

Important: The highest cost is often getting your documents compliant, not the scheme fee.

Why Contractors Fail SSIP / CHAS

Common mistakes include:

• Outdated health & safety policy
• Missing RAMS
• No competent safety advisor
• Weak or generic documents
• Expired insurance
• No training evidence

Fix these early, and approval becomes straightforward. Common reasons CHAS applications fail and how to avoid them

Benefits of CHAS / SSIP Accreditation

• Win more contracts
• Meet pre-qualification requirements
• Build trust with clients
• Reduce repeated assessments
• Improve your safety systems

Final Verdict

• SSIP = the standard
• CHAS = one of the best-known ways to meet it

If you want to grow in construction, SSIP accreditation isn’t optional; it’s expected.

Need help getting approved? Our CHAS support service handles the full process for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SSIP accreditation?

SSIP accreditation is a UK health and safety pre-qualification system that assesses contractors against a standard set of criteria. It helps reduce duplication across different schemes and allows contractors to demonstrate compliance to clients and main contractors.

What is CHAS, and how does it relate to SSIP?

CHAS is a health and safety accreditation scheme and a member of SSIP. It assesses contractors against the SSIP core criteria, meaning a CHAS certificate demonstrates compliance with recognised UK construction health and safety standards.

Do I need SSIP or CHAS to work in construction?

Most contractors working for main contractors, local authorities or commercial clients need SSIP accreditation such as CHAS. It is often required for pre-qualification and for accessing construction work opportunities.

Is CHAS the same as SSIP?

No. SSIP is the umbrella organisation that sets the assessment standard, while CHAS is one of the accreditation schemes that assesses contractors against those standards.

Can I use another SSIP scheme instead of CHAS?

Yes. Other SSIP schemes, such as PQS, Constructionline, SMAS, and SafeContractor, assess contractors against the same core criteria. The choice depends on what your clients or tenders require.

How long does SSIP or CHAS accreditation last?

SSIP accreditations, such as CHAS, typically last for 12 months. Contractors must renew annually to remain compliant and visible to clients and buyers. Learn about CHAS renewal.

What does CHAS assess?

CHAS assesses health and safety policies, risk assessments, training records, competent advice, accident reporting, workforce involvement, monitoring systems and subcontractor management to ensure contractors can work safely and meet industry standards. Learn about CHAS assessment criteria.

Why is SSIP accreditation important?

SSIP accreditation is important because it proves your business meets recognised health and safety standards, helps you pass pre-qualification requirements and increases your chances of winning contracts in the construction industry.

Related CHAS Guides

• If you’re applying through CHAS, follow our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.
• You may also benefit from CHAS Deem to Satisfy if you already hold SSIP certification.
• To compare options, see our CHAS vs Constructionline guide.
• Need help getting approved? Our CHAS support service handles the full process for you.

CHAS Accreditation Cost (2026): Full Breakdown for UK Contractors

CHAS accreditation typically costs between £400 and £3,500+ per year, depending on your company size and the level you choose (Standard, Advanced, or Elite).

Additional costs may include training, documentation, and health & safety support.

To understand the full process, see our guide on how to get CHAS accreditation.

What Affects CHAS Accreditation Cost?

CHAS pricing is based on:

• Number of employees
• Level of accreditation
• Risk profile of your business

The larger your business and the higher the level, the more you will pay.

CHAS Accreditation Levels Explained

CHAS Standard (Entry Level)

• Health & safety assessment
• SSIP accreditation

Suitable for most small contractors

CHAS Advanced

• Includes Standard
• Adds PAS 91 requirements

Often needed for larger contracts.

CHAS Elite (Highest Level)

• Includes Advanced
• Aligns with Common Assessment Standard (CAS)
• Covers 13 areas, including:
  • Health & safety
  • Environmental
  • Quality
  • Financial and governance

Required for many public sector frameworks

Other CHAS accreditation Costs

Training

To comply with the standard, you may be required to train your personnel in the following courses if you have not already done so.

• Asbestos: The Control of Asbestos Regulations
• Working at Height The Work at Height Regulations CHAS 2013 Ltd –
• First Aid The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations
• Fire precautions: The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations
• Noise and vibration: The Control of Noise at Work Regulations (NAW Regs) and The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations
• Personal Protective Equipment Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (PPE Regs)
• Substances hazardous to Health Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regs (COSHH)
• Electricity Electricity at Work Regs
• Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHO Regs)
• Work Equipment Provision and Use of Work Equipment (PUWE) Regs

Competent person safety advisor

You must employ a competent safety advisor if you employ more than five people. If you are a large organisation, you may already have one. Employing a qualified safety advisor may be prohibitive if you are a small contractor.

We are the remote competent person safety advisor for over eight hundred companies. We can offer this service to you for a fraction of the cost.

Additional Costs to Consider

CHAS is not just the fee—you may also need:

Training Costs

Depending on your work:

• Working at height
• Asbestos awareness
• First aid
• COSHH
• Manual handling

Documentation Costs

If you don’t already have:

• RAMS
• Health & safety policy
• Procedures

Competent Person (Safety Advisor)

UK law requires access to a competent health & safety advisor

This can be:

• In-house (expensive)
• Outsourced (more cost-effective)

How to Reduce CHAS Costs

To keep costs down:

✔ Choose the correct CHAS level

✔ Prepare documents before applying

✔ Keep training up to date

✔ Avoid failed applications (costs time + delays)

✔ Use expert support to get it right first time

Can You Save Money with Other SSIP Schemes?

CHAS is one of several SSIP schemes.

Alternatives include:

• Constructionline
• SafeContractor
• SMAS
• PQS

Some schemes are cheaper, especially for small businesses.

Please note:

• All SSIP schemes follow the same core criteria.
• Many clients still specify CHAS by name.
• To understand what’s involved in passing, see the full CHAS assessment criteria explained.

Is CHAS Worth the Cost?

CHAS is not legally required…

But it is often commercially essential.

Without it, you may:

• Lose contract opportunities
• Fail pre-qualification
• Be excluded from tenders.
• Once approved, you’ll be recognised as a CHAS-accredited contractor.

With it, you can:

• Demonstrate compliance
• Win more work
• Reduce repeated assessments

Final Thought

CHAS accreditation costs are not just fees…

It’s an investment in:

• Compliance
• Credibility
• Business growth

Want a Clear Cost Breakdown for Your Business?

Every business is different.

The fastest way to understand your real cost is to:

• Review your size
• Check your documents
• Choose the right level.
• If you want to avoid rework and delays, our CHAS support service can manage everything for you.