CDM for Domestic Clients

What This Requirement Covers

The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) apply to all construction projects, including domestic work such as extensions, loft conversions, and renovations. However, domestic clients (homeowners commissioning work on their own home) have their duties automatically transferred to the contractor or principal contractor.

Key Requirements

Automatic Transfer of Duties

1. When a domestic client appoints a single contractor, the CDM client duties transfer automatically to that contractor
2. When a domestic client appoints multiple contractors, the client duties transfer to the principal contractor (the contractor in overall control of the construction phase)
3. The domestic client does not need to take any active steps to transfer these duties; it happens by operation of law
4. However, a domestic client may choose to take on the client duties themselves by making a written declaration

What This Means for Homeowners

1. Homeowners are not expected to manage health and safety on their building project
2. The contractor (or principal contractor) must:

- Plan, manage, and monitor the construction phase for health and safety - Prepare a construction phase plan (for multi-contractor projects) - Coordinate the work of multiple contractors - Ensure adequate welfare facilities are provided on site

When CDM Matters to Homeowners

1. If the project involves more than one contractor (e.g., builder, electrician, plumber working at different times), there must be a principal contractor in overall control
2. If the project is notifiable (more than 30 working days and 20 workers, or more than 500 person-days), an F10 notification must be submitted to the HSE
3. Homeowners should still take reasonable steps to appoint competent contractors and designers

Practical Compliance Tips

1. When appointing contractors, check their competence and track record for health and safety
2. If multiple trades will work on the project, clarify which contractor will act as the principal contractor
3. Ensure the builder provides adequate welfare facilities (toilets, washing facilities, rest area) on site
4. Do not put pressure on contractors to take shortcuts with safety to meet deadlines or save money
5. Retain the health and safety file if one is produced; it contains information useful for future maintenance
6. For large projects, consider appointing a principal designer to manage design risks
7. CDM applies equally to self-build projects; if you are managing your own build, the client duties fall to you