What does ‘considerate constructor’ mean?

When you drive past a new build estate, or indeed when you pull up onto the site of your new home, it’s likely there will be a banner somewhere stating the housebuilder is a ‘considerate constructor’. But what exactly does this mean and how do you know if your housebuilder is being considerate? Read on to find out!

What is a considerate constructor?

A considerate constructor refers to a company that has registered with ‘The Considerate Constructors Scheme’ - a not-for-profit independent organisation whose goal is to raise standards in the construction industry. The scheme was founded in 1997 to improve the image of the construction industry and ensure builders were implementing best practice beyond statutory requirements.

The Considerate Constructors Scheme places a focus on three main areas of activity - respecting the community, caring for the environment and valuing their workforce. Any construction site, company or supplier can voluntarily register with the scheme, thereby agreeing to abide by the organisation’s Code of Considerate Practice.

What guidelines do considerate constructors follow?

Once registered with the scheme, considerate constructors must follow the guidelines set out in the Code of Considerate Practice which relates to the three key areas as outlined above. Regardless of the location, size or type of building site, each constructor must strive to improve the impact of the construction industry and leave a positive legacy.

Respect the community

Constructors are to ensure that their impact on neighbours and the public is managed to support a positive experience, while proactively maintaining effective engagement with the community. They should strive to ensure courteous and respectful language is used at all times, and appropriate behaviour is displayed in and around the site. It’s also important for constructors to provide a safe environment that prevents unnecessary disturbance or nuisance for the community.

Care for the environment

We all know the importance of caring for the environment, but the construction industry has more of a responsibility to ensure their impact is minimised. Constructors need to prioritise environmental issues to protect the natural environment while engaging with the local community to improve the local environment and minimise any negative impacts. It’s not just the site team though, constructors should ensure they optimise the use of resources, for example by minimising carbon throughout the value chain and beyond.

Value their workforce

While the construction industry is known for being ‘rough and ready’ and a workplace for banter, considerate constructors will also need to ensure they create a supportive and healthy workplace that is comfortable for all. They should encourage and support an inclusive and diverse workforce, while proactively supporting safe working and mental and physical wellbeing. At a minimum, they should provide workspaces that are well maintained, clean and secure from physical and biological hazards.

How do I know if my house builder is a considerate constructor?

If your new home is being built by a considerate constructor, it’ll usually be obvious by the banners and signage displayed around the site. It’s an obligation of the scheme to prominently display banners or posters on the exterior of the site. However, if there are no obvious signs that state the builder is part of the scheme, you can contact the Considerate Constructors team to find out.

Despite being a considerate constructor, some house builders still fail to meet the requirements laid out in the scheme and the quality of homes expected of them. Find out if your home is up to scratch with a snagging inspection.

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