In the ever-evolving landscape of construction regulation, efficiency and compliance are no longer mutually exclusive. The introduction of BS 99001 — the British Standard for quality management systems in the built environment — offers a powerful route to both. And when it comes to navigating the Common Assessment Standard (CAS), BS 99001 certification is more than just a badge of quality — it’s a strategic shortcut.
Recent changes in building safety legislation and an industry shift toward improved quality and health and safety has driven a move towards better standardisation, transparency, traceability and accountability.
The Common Assessment Standard (CAS) together with BS 99001 certification are helping
What is The Common Assessment Standard (CAS)?
The Common Assessment Standard (CAS) is a unified pre-qualification framework developed to streamline the procurement process in the UK construction industry. It was created by Build UK and is supported by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) to reduce duplication and inefficiencies in supply chain assessments.
CAS helps to ensure consistency throughout the tender process with vendors using the same criteria. It is delivered through platforms like Construction line who offer different tiers of verification (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum).
BS 99001 is explicitly mentioned within the Common Assessment Criteria.
BS 99001: More Than a Quality Standard
BS 99001, the British Standard for quality management systems in the built environment, tailor’s ISO 9001 specifically for the built environment, aligning quality management with the unique risks and regulatory demands of construction. Unlike generic standards, it integrates sector-specific requirements, including those related to the Building Safety Act.
Skip 32 Questions with One Certificate
According to the Construction Line’s Gold CAS Mapping Guide from January 2025, organisations holding a valid BS 99001 certificate issued by a UKAS-accredited body are exempt from answering a significant portion of the CAS questionnaire:
- 10 Quality Management questions (CAS 128–137)
- All 22 Building Safety questions (CAS 138–159)
That’s a total of 32 questions you can skip — saving time, reducing administrative burden, and accelerating your verification process.
Why This Matters
The Building Safety Act introduces rigorous new duties for contractors, designers, and duty-holders. Demonstrating compliance can be complex and time-consuming. BS 99001 certification provides a pre-verified assurance that your organisation meets these requirements, streamlining your path through procurement and prequalification.
A Competitive Edge in Procurement
Buyers using platforms like Constructionline are increasingly looking for suppliers who can demonstrate robust, proactive compliance. Holding BS 99001 not only signals your commitment to quality and safety — it also makes your organisation easier to onboard, verify, and trust.
Get Started with BS 99001
As of 7th July 2025, BS 99001 is under consideration for a pilot accreditation project, however some certification bodies, including BSI, are already providing certification to the standard.
Assent’s BS 99001 Consultants can help you expand your ISO 9001 quality management system to meet the specific requirements of the standard. Contact us today!
