Competence Declaration

A competence declaration is a formal document wherein an applicant, typically the client, affirms their confidence in the competency of the project team to fulfil their roles effectively. This includes the principal designer, principal contractor, and any other designers and contractors involved in the project. The client, often an organisation or individual such as a developer or building owner, commissions building and design work.

This term is outlined in government guidance documents such as “Design and Building Work: Meeting Building Requirements” and “Managing Building Control Approval Applications for Higher-Risk Buildings.” Both documents pertain to duties and competencies mandated by The Building Regulations, etc. (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2023 and The Building (Higher-Risk Buildings Procedures) (England) Regulations 2023.

A competence declaration is typically part of a package of information submitted alongside drawings, plans, construction control plans, change control plans, building regulations compliance statements, fire and emergency files, etc. The guidance specifies that the competence declaration is necessary to confirm:

• The client’s confidence in the competency of the principal designer, principal contractor, and other relevant parties.
• Steps taken by the client to ensure the competency of these individuals and entities.

Additionally, the competence declaration must address any concerns regarding the competence of the principal designer or principal contractor, explain why they were appointed despite these concerns, and outline steps taken to mitigate associated risks.

This declaration must be signed by the client and submitted, along with other required documents, to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) before commencing any work as part of the building control approval application process. Furthermore, these documents must be kept updated throughout and after the construction process, aligning with the principles of the golden thread of information and ensuring compliance with regulations regarding the information to be retained with the building.