Most homeowners think health and safety is the builder’s job.
But here’s the shocker — you carry legal responsibilities too.
Under CDM Regulations (Construction Design and Management 2015), even small domestic projects make you a “client” in the eyes of the law.
So if something goes wrong on-site, you can’t just shrug it off.
What the Law Says...
As the homeowner (the client), you must make sure:
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The people you hire are competent and qualified
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There’s a written plan covering safety and responsibilities
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Everyone on-site knows the rules — from PPE to emergency procedures
You don’t need to manage the site yourself — but you do need to choose a builder who can.
What Professional Builders Should Do
A compliant builder will:
✅ Handle inductions, risk assessments, and site safety paperwork
✅ Keep tools, materials, and access areas tidy and secure
✅ Make sure workers and visitors are protected at all times
✅ Notify the HSE (via an F10) if the job is notifiable
If your builder isn’t doing any of that, you’re already exposed.
Where Homeowners Get Caught Out
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Letting uninsured or unqualified trades on-site
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No written safety plan or induction
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Paying cash with no paperwork trail
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Ignoring signs of unsafe work because “it’s nearly done”
When accidents happen under those conditions, the homeowner can still face investigation — even if they weren’t present.
How to Protect Yourself
✅ Check your builder’s insurance, qualifications, and health & safety record
✅ Ask who’s acting as the “Principal Contractor” — it must be clear in writing
✅ Keep copies of all inductions, risk assessments, and notifications
✅ Use reputable, vetted trades — like those verified through Check A Builder
Bottom Line
Health and safety isn’t optional, and it’s not just on the builder.
If you’re the client, you share the responsibility — so make sure the people you hire know what they’re doing.
Because if the site’s unsafe, everyone’s at risk — including you.
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