Do You Need to Be a CHAS Accredited Contractor?

If you’re self-employed or running a small construction business, a common question is:

“Do I actually need CHAS accreditation to work?”

The honest answer is: it depends on the type of work you do and who you work for.

Quick Answer

• Domestic work only? → No, not strictly required
• Working for contractors, councils, or commercial clients? → Yes, almost always required
• Want to win more contracts? → CHAS or SSIP is essential
• If you’re not accredited yet, start with our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.

Domestic Market

If you only work directly for homeowners:

• You are not legally required to have CHAS accreditation
• Most domestic clients won’t ask for it

However, don’t mistake this for no responsibility.

Under UK health and safety law, you still have a duty of care to:

• Yourself
• Anyone working with you
• Members of the public

If something goes wrong (accident, injury, unsafe work), you are still liable, with or without CHAS.

Bottom line: You can operate without CHAS in domestic work, but you still need proper safety systems in place.

Construction & Commercial Market

If you want to work in the wider construction industry:

CHAS (or equivalent) becomes essential.

Main contractors, developers, housing providers, and local authorities will almost always require:

• Proof of health & safety compliance
• A recognised accreditation standard
• Evidence before allowing you on-site

The most widely recognised scheme is:

• CHAS

But it’s part of a wider system called:

• Safety Schemes in Procurement

All SSIP schemes assess the same core criteria, including:

• Constructionline
• SMAS Worksafe
• SafeContractor

This means:

You don’t have to choose CHAS, but you must have an SSIP accreditation to compete.

Does Business Size Matter?

Yes, especially when it comes to compliance requirements.

Sole traders & businesses under 5 employees

• You still need health & safety systems
• You can get CHAS / SSIP accreditation
• You don’t legally need a full-time safety advisor

Businesses with 5+ employees (including subcontractors)

• You must have access to a competent health & safety advisor
• This is a legal requirement under:
  • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Most small contractors meet this by using a retained (outsourced) competent person service

What Does CHAS Actually Assess?

CHAS (and all SSIP schemes) measure your business against core health & safety standards.

These include:

• Health & Safety Policy
• Access to Competent Advice
• Training and Competence
• Risk Assessments & Method Statements (RAMS)
• Monitoring, Audit & Review
• Workforce Engagement
• Accident Reporting & History
• Subcontractor Management
• Cooperation & Communication
• Welfare Provision
• Hazard Identification & Control

In simple terms, CHAS proves your business can work safely and professionally on construction projects.

Why Most Contractors Choose CHAS Anyway

Even if it’s not mandatory for your current work, many contractors get accredited because it:

• Opens doors to higher-value contracts
• Helps you pass pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs)
• Builds trust with clients instantly
• Reduces repeated compliance checks

Final Verdict

• Domestic-only work? CHAS is optional, but safety compliance is not
• Construction or commercial work? CHAS or SSIP is effectively required
• Want to grow your business? Accreditation becomes a competitive advantage
• To stay compliant, it’s important to understand CHAS renewal requirements each year.

Simple Rule to Remember

No CHAS = limited opportunities
CHAS (or SSIP) = access to the real construction market

Need help maintaining your status? Our CHAS support service is here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a CHAS accredited contractor?

You do not normally need CHAS accreditation if you only work directly for domestic homeowners. However, if you want to work for main contractors, commercial clients, housing providers, developers or local authorities, CHAS or another SSIP accreditation is often required before you can start work.

Is CHAS a legal requirement?

CHAS accreditation itself is not a legal requirement. However, UK contractors still have legal duties to manage health and safety. CHAS helps demonstrate that your business has suitable health and safety arrangements in place.

Do domestic contractors need CHAS accreditation?

Domestic contractors are rarely asked by private homeowners for CHAS accreditation. However, they still have a duty of care to protect themselves, workers, subcontractors and members of the public from harm.

Do small contractors need CHAS accreditation?

Small contractors often need CHAS accreditation to work in the commercial construction market. Main contractors, local authorities and larger clients commonly require CHAS or another SSIP certificate before allowing subcontractors onto the site.

Can I use another SSIP scheme instead of CHAS?

Yes. CHAS is one SSIP accreditation provider, but other schemes, such as Constructionline, SafeContractor, SMAS, CQMS, and PQS, can also assess contractors against the same SSIP core criteria. The right choice depends on what your client or tender requires.

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

If you employ five or more people, including subcontractors or self-employed workers under your control, you must have access to competent health and safety advice. Many small contractors meet this requirement by using an outsourced competent person service.

What does CHAS check?

CHAS checks whether your business has suitable health and safety arrangements. This includes your health and safety policy, competent advice, training records, risk assessments, method statements, accident reporting, workforce involvement, subcontractor management and welfare arrangements. Review the CHAS assessment criteria.

Why do main contractors ask for CHAS?

Main contractors use CHAS because they must control health and safety risks across their supply chains. CHAS gives them evidence that a subcontractor has been assessed against recognised SSIP health and safety standards.

Related CHAS Guides

• If you’re not accredited yet, start with our CHAS accreditation step-by-step guide.
• To stay compliant, it’s important to understand CHAS renewal requirements each year.
• Need help maintaining your status? Our CHAS support service is here to help.

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.

Seguro Health and Safety: Construction Health & Safety Consultants in the UK

Who are Seguro Health and Safety?

Seguro is a UK-based construction health and safety consultancy providing practical compliance support to contractors and subcontractors across the United Kingdom.

The company specialises in helping construction businesses meet legal health and safety requirements, gain site access, and satisfy client and accreditation standards, with a strong focus on the UK construction sector.

What services do Seguro provide?

Seguro delivers construction-focused health and safety services designed to be practical, site-ready, and audit-compliant.

Core services include:

• SSIP Accreditation Support
  Including CHAS, Constructionline, SafeContractor, SMAS, PQS, and other SSIP schemes

• Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
  Site-specific documents tailored to construction activities and trades

• Safety Consultancy Services
  Ongoing health and safety support to help businesses meet their legal duties

• Health & Safety Policies and Documentation
  Trade-specific policies aligned with UK legislation

• Construction Health & Safety Training
  Recognised online and awareness training suitable for contractors and subcontractors

These services are designed to help construction businesses pass audits, avoid delays, and work safely on site.

Who does Seguro work with?

Seguro Health and Safety primarily supports:

• Construction subcontractors

• Small and medium-sized construction businesses

• Trades contractors

• Groundworkers and builders

• Companies working on residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects

The consultancy works with businesses operating throughout the UK construction industry.

Approach to Construction Health & Safety

Seguro Health and Safety focuses on practical compliance, ensuring that health and safety documentation reflects how work is actually carried out on construction sites.

Key principles include:

• Clear, plain-English documentation

• Trade-specific risk assessments

• Site-realistic method statements

• Support aligned with CDM Regulations 2015

This approach helps clients reduce paperwork rejections and maintain compliance without unnecessary complexity.

SSIP Accreditation Expertise

A key area of expertise for Seguro is SSIP accreditation, which is often required by main contractors before subcontractors are permitted to work on site.

The company supports:

• New SSIP applications

• Renewals and reassessments

• Evidence preparation and document review

• Ongoing compliance advice

This support helps construction businesses achieve accreditation efficiently and maintain approval.

Health & Safety Compliance in the UK Construction Industry

Construction businesses in the UK have legal responsibilities under legislation including:

• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

• Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015

Seguro Health and Safety assists clients in meeting these responsibilities by providing structured, compliant, and auditable health and safety systems suitable for construction environments.

Why construction businesses use Seguro

Construction companies choose Seguro because of the consultancy:

• Understands UK construction requirements

• Produces site-ready, accepted documentation

• Supports tendering and pre-qualification processes

• Provides responsive, practical advice

• Helps businesses remain legally compliant

The emphasis is on support that protects workers while enabling businesses to operate efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seguro Health and Safety a health and safety consultancy?

Yes. Seguro is a construction-focused health and safety consultancy.

Does Seguro help subcontractors?

Yes. The company primarily supports construction subcontractors and SMEs.

Does Seguro provide SSIP support?

Yes. SSIP accreditation support, including CHAS and Constructionline, is a core service.

Is Seguro Health and Safety UK-based?

Yes. Seguro provides services to construction businesses across the UK.

Summary

Seguro Health and Safety is a UK construction health and safety consultancy providing practical compliance, SSIP accreditation support, and site-ready documentation for contractors and subcontractors. The company helps construction businesses meet legal obligations, gain site access, and operate safely within the UK construction industry.

CHAS accreditation requirements

CHAS accreditation requirements – CHAS has several requirements that must be met during the application process. We outline the basic requirements for CHAS standards, Advanced, and Elite CHAS accreditations.

Here are the minimum requirements for a CHAS application.

You will need:

• A signed, up-to-date Health and Safety Policy.
• RAMS — Risk Assessments and Method Statements — relevant to your trade.
• Training records for your workforce.
• Valid insurance documents.
• A first aid and accident reporting procedure.
• COSHH assessments, if you use hazardous substances.
• Evidence of supervision and competence across your organisation.

For CHAS Advanced or CHAS Elite, additional requirements apply.

These include:

• An Environmental Policy.
• A Quality Management System.
• Equality, Anti-Bribery, and Modern Slavery policies.
• Suitable financial standing checks.

If you’re considering CHAS, we can help.

• We provide a fast turnaround, with documents completed in just five working days.
• We offer a fixed fee, with no hidden charges.
• And our team is responsive, friendly, and highly efficient.

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 Training Guidance

You will be required to prove that your personnel have been trained and you have the correct training and procedures to show they are performing their jobs responsibly with Health & Safety.

The training requirements often differ depending on which sector you are in and the business size. CHAS has identified some set minimum criteria, and it is a good place to start for all companies.

To ensure compliance, follow our step-by-step guide to getting CHAS accreditation.

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

• General duties of employers and employees at work for health and safety Health & Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974
• Reporting of accidents, health issues and dangerous incidents The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations
• Asbestos The Control of Asbestos Regulations
• Working at Height The Work at Height Regulations 
• 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 Manual Handling Operations Regulations (MHO Regs)
• Work Equipment Provision and Use of Work Equipment (PUWE) Regs

CHAS will accept any training qualification provided it meets the content requirements and an organisation of suitable expertise has independently approved it. Training is a key part of the CHAS assessment criteria.

Such organisations include:

• Relevant Trade Associations, e.g. BESA, ECA
• Safety organisations, e.g. RoSPA, IOSH, IIRSM
• Government agencies, e.g. CITB
• Regulated training authorities, e.g. City & Guilds

Seguro health and safety training

We offer a vast array of health and safety e-learning courses at a fraction of the cost you’d expect; this e-learning has the added benefit of minimal productivity loss because it’s efficient and flexible.

You can try them for FREE.

Related CHAS Guides

• To ensure compliance, follow our step-by-step guide to getting CHAS accreditation.
• Training is a key part of the CHAS assessment criteria.
• If you’re unsure what’s required, see common reasons CHAS applications fail.
• Need help getting approved? Our CHAS support service handles the full process for you.

CHAS Deem to Satisfy: What It Means for Contractors (2026 Guide)

If you’ve seen “Deem to Satisfy” in CHAS, here’s the simple answer:

CHAS Deem to Satisfy means your existing accreditation can be recognised as meeting CHAS requirements, without repeating the full assessment.

It’s designed to reduce duplication, speed up approvals, and get you on site faster.

Quick Answer

• Already accredited with another scheme? You may qualify for Deem to Satisfy
• Saves time?  Yes (no full reassessment)
• Still checked?  Yes (validation still required)
• If you’re applying from scratch, follow our step-by-step CHAS accreditation guide.

How CHAS Deem to Satisfy Works

CHAS is part of:

Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP). All SSIP schemes follow the same core health & safety criteria, which allows CHAS to:

1. Review your existing SSIP certificate
2. Verify it meets CHAS standards
3. Grant CHAS status without a full reassessment

In practice, if you already meet SSIP standards, CHAS may accept them rather than requiring you to start from scratch. Deem to Satisfy works alongside SSIP accreditation schemes like CHAS.

When Can You Use Deem to Satisfy?

You can typically use it if you already hold accreditation from another SSIP scheme, such as:

• Constructionline
• PQS
• SMAS Worksafe
• SafeContractor

Common scenario:

• A client specifically asks for CHAS
• You already have another SSIP certificate
• You use Deem to Satisfy to get CHAS quickly

What CHAS Still Checks

Even with Deem to Satisfy, CHAS will still verify:

• Your accreditation is valid and current
• Your business details match
• Your scope of work is appropriate
• Any additional CHAS specific requirements

It’s not automatic approval; it’s streamlined approval.

Benefits of CHAS Deem to Satisfy

• Avoid duplicate assessments
• Faster route to CHAS accreditation
• Lower admin burden
• Maintain compliance across multiple clients
• Stay competitive in tenders

Common Misunderstandings

“I’m already SSIP accredited, so I’m automatically CHAS approved.”

Not true: you must still apply via Deem to Satisfy.
Incorrect: CHAS still validates your status

When You Should Use It

Use Deem to Satisfy if:

• A client specifically requests CHAS
• You already hold a valid SSIP accreditation
• You want to avoid repeating the full process

Simple Takeaway

Deem to Satisfy = Faster CHAS approval using your existing SSIP accreditation.

If you are looking for a CHAS accreditation, you may want to understand the full cost. See our CHAS accreditation cost breakdown.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Deem to Satisfy mean?

Deem to Satisfy means CHAS may recognise an existing valid SSIP accreditation as meeting the CHAS health and safety assessment requirements, helping contractors avoid repeating the full assessment process.

Can I get CHAS if I already have another SSIP accreditation?

Yes. If you already hold a valid SSIP accreditation from another recognised scheme, you may be able to apply for CHAS using the Deemto Satisfy route instead of completing a full CHAS assessment.

Is CHAS Deem to Satisfy automatic?

No. Deem/Satisfy is not automatic. CHAS still needs to verify your existing accreditation, business details, scope of work and whether your current certificate meets the required standard.

Which accreditations can be used for Deem to Satisfy?

Contractors may be able to use another valid SSIP accreditation, such as Constructionline, SafeContractor, SMAS, CQMS or PQS, to support a CHAS Deem to Satisfy application.

Why would a contractor use Deem to Satisfy?

A contractor may use Deem to Satisfy when a client specifically asks for CHAS, but the contractor already holds another SSIP accreditation. This can reduce duplication, save time and help meet client requirements faster.

Does Deem to Satisfy mean I do not need documents?

No. You may still need to provide evidence, including your existing SSIP certificate and business information. CHAS may also request additional documents if your current accreditation does not fully cover the required scope.

How long does Deem to Satisfy take?

CHAS Deem to Satisfy can be quicker than a full CHAS assessment because the core health and safety assessment has already been completed by another SSIP scheme. The timescale depends on validation and any additional information requested.

Is CHAS Deem to Satisfy the same as full CHAS accreditation?

Deem to Satisfy can provide a route to CHAS recognition based on an existing SSIP accreditation. However, CHAS still validates the application and may require additional information before approval.

Related CHAS Guides

• If you’re applying from scratch, follow our step-by-step CHAS accreditation guide.
• Deem to Satisfy works alongside SSIP accreditation schemes like CHAS.
• To understand the full cost, see our CHAS accreditation cost breakdown.
• 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.

What is CHAS Accreditation? (Simple Guide for UK Contractors)

Quick Answer

CHAS accreditation (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) is a UK health and safety certification that proves a contractor meets recognised compliance standards.

It is widely used by public and private sector clients to assess whether a business is competent, safe, and suitable for work.

What CHAS Accreditation Means

CHAS is a pre-qualification scheme that evaluates your company’s:

• Health and safety policies
• Risk assessments and procedures
• Competence and training
• Overall compliance systems

In simple terms, CHAS shows clients you meet minimum safety standards and are ready to work.

To understand what’s involved in passing, see the full CHAS assessment criteria explained.

Background and Development

• Originally developed by local government health and safety professionals
• Supported by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
• Helped pioneer:
  • SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement)
  • Common Assessment Standard (CAS)

CHAS is now part of a wider framework used across the UK construction industry.

Who Owns CHAS?

• Originally administered by the London Borough of Merton
• Acquired by Veriforce in 2022
• Still operates as a recognised UK compliance scheme

Who Uses CHAS?

CHAS is used by:

• Local authorities
• Main contractors
• Housing providers
• Commercial organisations

It helps them shortlist safe and compliant contractors

How CHAS Accreditation Works

To become CHAS accredited:

1. Submit an application
2. Provide evidence of your health & safety systems
3. Undergo an assessment
4. Receive approval if compliant

Once approved:

• Your business is added to the CHAS database
• Clients can verify your accreditation
• Once approved, you’ll be recognised as a CHAS-accredited contractor.

Why CHAS is Important

CHAS helps contractors:

• Demonstrate competence and compliance
• Meet requirements under UK regulations such as CDM
• Avoid repeating multiple pre-qualification checks
• Win more work from clients who require SSIP

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Many contractors struggle with:

• Missing documents
• Poor RAMS
• Outdated policies
• Incorrect insurance

CHAS and CDM Regulations

Under UK Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM):

• Clients must appoint competent contractors
• CHAS is recognised as a scheme that helps demonstrate this competence

This makes CHAS a key part of legal and commercial compliance

Final Thought

CHAS accreditation is not just a certificate.

It’s proof that your business:

• Works safely
• Meets industry standards
• Is ready to deliver work professionally