CCS Code & Checklist Update
From 5 May 2026, the Considerate Constructors Scheme will introduce a strengthened, modernised Checklist and scoring model designed to provide clearer expectations, more consistent assessments and a fairer framework for recognising positive performance across the industry.
Introducing the Updated CCS Code & Checklist
The Considerate Constructors Scheme has launched an updated Code and Checklist, introducing a clearer, more consistent and outcome‑focused framework for assessing responsible construction across the UK and Ireland.
This update is an evolution, not a revolution. Around 90% of the Code remains familiar, while targeted changes strengthen clarity, fairness and usability making good practice easier to demonstrate, easier to improve and more consistently recognised across projects, organisations and supply chains.
What’s Changed - and Why
The updated Code and Checklist respond to how construction is delivered today. Shaped through extensive engagement with contractors, monitors, clients and subject‑matter experts and tested through pilot activity, the changes focus on enabling real‑world impact
Key improvements include:
- A clearer structure built around defined Themes and Expectations
- A fairer scoring model that supports continuous improvement
- Simpler, plainer language, with proportionate guidance for SMEs
- Stronger alignment with industry frameworks and client expectations, while continuing to set standards that go beyond compliance
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A Clearer, Outcome‑Focused Structure
The updated Checklist replaces the previous question‑based format with 24 themes across the three CCS pillars:
- Community
- Environment
- Workforce
Each theme includes a set of clear, outcome‑focused Expectations, written in plain language. This approach recognises that sites differ but the outcomes should not: communities respected, the environment protected, and workforces supported.
The structure gives contractors greater flexibility in how outcomes are achieved, while ensuring assessments remain consistent and evidence‑based.
Respect the community
Care for the environment
Value the workforce
Fairer Scoring That Drives Improvement
Scoring has moved to a percentage‑based model, with each Expectation assessed as:
- Not met
- Partially met
- Fully met
This change provides clearer visibility of performance across all three pillars and helps teams understand where they are doing well and where improvement efforts will have the greatest impact.
The focus is on making progress visible. Repeat visits place greater emphasis on what has improved since the last assessment, supporting meaningful continuous improvement.
Overall Site Scoring and Performance Levels
The Considerate Constructors Scheme scoring system has a total of 5 score category and performance levels which give CCS sites an official specified rating:
| Score | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| 95% - 100% | Outstanding |
| 85% - 94% | Excellent |
| 75% - 84% | Very good |
| 60% - 74% | Good |
| 50% - 59% | Conforming |
How We’ll Support You to Score Well
We’re providing a full package of support to ensure a smooth transition
Support includes refreshed digital tools, such as a new Visit Preparation Tool, a new CCS Portal, updated report templates, site-ready resources and detailed guidance for every theme - all designed to make the Checklist clearer and more practical for every type of construction site or organisation.”
Stronger Alignment
The updated Code strengthens alignment with client expectations, public‑sector priorities and wider industry needs, while continuing to set expectations that go beyond minimum compliance.
This includes clearer links to:
- Environmental and social criteria commonly used in BREEAM assessments
- ISO‑style management system approaches for quality, environmental and health & safety practice
- Social Value reporting frameworks, helping outcomes be measured, evidenced and compared
- Procurement Act expectations around supply‑chain visibility, responsible subcontracting and collaboration
The Code remains industry‑led and outcomes‑focused supporting leadership.
A Stronger Focus on People
The Workforce pillar has been reinforced to reflect the importance of wellbeing, respect and inclusion on site.
Expectations now place greater emphasis on:
- Mental health support, including Lighthouse Charity information visible on every site
- Skin‑cancer and UV‑exposure awareness
- Clear, behaviour‑focused expectations on harassment and inclusivity
- Creating respectful, fair and professional working environments in practice
These expectations focus on everyday behaviours recognising that considerate construction starts with how people are treated.
Timetable to Launch
- From February through May, we will move through the final stages of preparation and delivery for the new Checklist.
- In February, we focus on refining the Code and completing the late‑stage drafts of the Guidance, alongside initial score benchmarking.
- In March, we shift into engagement and readiness activities, including client and partner engagement, monitor and staff training, site manager briefings and system testing.
- In April, the external communications begin, with the media launch, site manager webinars and the National Site Award workshops.
- By May, we will commence the first monitoring visits, supported by continued site manager webinars to ensure everyone feels confident using the new model.
Enhanced Digital Tools & Monitoring
The updated Code is supported by an improved digital experience, including:
- A new Visit Preparation Tool replacing the self‑assessment
- In‑platform guidance aligned to each Theme
- Improved recording of project information
- Clear tracking of improvement opportunities
Monitoring reports have also been refreshed to provide clearer, theme‑level insights and more consistent evidence‑based feedback.
What This Means for You
The updated CCS Code and Checklist are designed to:
- Make expectations clearer and fairer
- Support organisations of all sizes, including SMEs
- Help teams demonstrate good practice with confidence
- Enable continuous improvement across Community, Environment and Workforce
The result is a scheme that remains familiar but stronger, more transparent and better equipped to support responsible construction now and into the future.
Download the Checklist
Access the updated Checklist - including a side‑by‑side comparison with the previous version - to see exactly what has changed.
FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about the new structure, scoring, expectations and support available.
CCS CHECKLIST & CODE UPDATE NEWSLETTER
This newsletter sets out what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and where to find practical support to help you get ready.
Download the Checklist
Access the updated Checklist, and a mapping of how the Old and Revised Checklists compare.
Code Revision Workshops
Workshops on the revised Code of Considerate Practice, took place alongside the National Site Award ceremonies across the UK and Republic of Ireland between 20 April and 1 May.
We also held online webinars on the 28th April and 30th April.
FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about the new structure, scoring, expectations and support available.