Why CDM Compliance is Critical for Developers
As a developer, you’re not just investing in a property — you’re legally responsible for what happens on site. Under CDM 2015, you’re classed as the Client and must ensure health and safety is properly managed from start to finish. That includes appointing the right professionals, ensuring proper planning, and preventing avoidable risks.
Whether you’re overseeing a refurbishment, new build, or conversion for sale or rent, the HSE expects you to take your duties seriously — and they won’t accept “I didn’t know” as an excuse.
Project delays or shutdowns by the HSE
Fines of £20,000+ for missing documentation or poor oversight
Reputational damage and liability if someone is injured
Missed legal appointments — placing risk back on you
Costly rework due to design-phase health and safety oversights
Loss of investor or buyer confidence if site safety is compromised
Compliance with CDM regulations isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about protecting your investment, your team, and your timeline. At Compass HSC, we help developers build safer, more efficient projects without unnecessary paperwork or red tape. You focus on delivery, we’ll keep you compliant.
The Costliest Mistakes Developers Make Under CDM
Most developers aren’t trying to cut corners — they just don’t realise what CDM 2015 legally requires until it’s too late. These are some of the most common (and expensive) oversights we see time and time again on property development projects.
No Principal Designer Appointed
Required on all multi-contractor projects — skipping this leaves you legally exposed.
No Construction Phase Plan (CPP)
Starting work without one is a red flag for the HSE and a fast-track to enforcement.
Failure to Notify the HSE
If your project meets notification thresholds and you skip it, you’re in breach.
Assuming a Builder Will Handle Everything
If you don’t make formal appointments, you’re still responsible.
Thinking Small Projects Don’t Count
CDM applies to all commercial projects — even a single conversion for profit.
No Welfare Provisions On Site
Toilets, washing facilities, and rest areas are legally required.
Every one of these mistakes is avoidable — but only if you know your responsibilities from the start. At Compass HSC, we help developers stay ahead of the risks with clear advice, expert support, and full CDM compliance from day one.
Getting CDM Support is Straightforward — We’ll Guide You Through It
As a developer, you have enough to manage. That’s why we make CDM compliance clear, practical, and fully aligned with your project goals — without the jargon or unnecessary paperwork.
Free Consulatation
Book a short call with us. We’ll review your project and explain your CDM responsibilities as a commercial client.
Tailored Safety Plan
We deliver clear, compliant documentation that fits your timeline, your team, and your project.
Ongoing Compliance Support
Stay compliant from planning to completion. We provide expert guidance and oversight to keep your build on track.
Practical CDM Support Tailored for Property Developers
Whether you’re managing multiple refurbishments or large-scale developments, Compass HSC provides expert CDM guidance to keep your projects compliant, safe, and on schedule.
Principal Designer Support
We take on the Principal Designer role to manage health and safety during design and coordinate your design team’s compliance.
Site Safety Documentation
We prepare all essential documentation — RAMS, CPPs, and welfare checklists — tailored to your site and ready for HSE inspection.
CDM Project Advisory
Need expert advice? We offer clear guidance throughout your project lifecycle, helping you understand and meet your legal duties.
Full CDM Management
From formal appointments to ongoing site checks, we handle the details so you stay protected and focused on delivery.
What CDM Expects from You as a Developer
As a commercial developer, you’re classed as the Client under CDM 2015. This means you’re legally responsible for ensuring health and safety is managed throughout your project — even if you’re not on site every day.
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Appoint a competent Principal Designer and Principal Contractor for projects with multiple contractors.
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Provide pre-construction information to all contractors.
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Ensure a Construction Phase Plan (CPP) is prepared before work starts.
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Confirm suitable welfare facilities are in place on site.
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Monitor compliance throughout the build to avoid enforcement action.
Understanding your role isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about protecting your project, your workers, and your reputation.
Real Consequences for Developers Ignoring CDM
Ignoring CDM regulations isn’t just risky — it can be costly. These real-life cases highlight how developers like you faced serious fines and project delays due to non-compliance.
Sherwood Homes (Preston/Tarporley)
Fined £76,000 for failure to appoint a Principal Contractor and poor site management.
Greenlife Property Developments (South Wales)
Fined £40,000 for ignoring enforcement notices related to unsafe excavation.
Nofax Enterprises (London)
Fined £63,000 for serious breaches including unsafe work at height and dust exposure.
These are not isolated incidents. CDM enforcement is rigorous — don’t let your project become the next headline. Compass HSC helps you avoid these pitfalls with expert CDM support.
Not Sure If You’re CDM Compliant?
Many developers don’t realise when CDM applies — or what it actually requires — until it’s too late. Our free CDM Compliance Checklist helps you quickly identify gaps, understand your legal duties, and take the first step toward safer, more professional project delivery.
Instant access. No spam. Just clear guidance you can act on.
Frequently Asked Questions About CDM for Developers
Still unsure where you stand under CDM 2015? Here are some of the most common questions we get from developers like you. If you need more clarity, we’re here to help with straightforward advice.
I’m refurbishing a property to sell or rent — do CDM regulations apply to me?
Yes.
If you’re converting, developing, or refurbishing a property for commercial purposes — including resale or rental — you are classed as a commercial client under CDM 2015. This means you have legal duties to manage health and safety and appoint the right duty holders.
Do I need to appoint a Principal Designer and Principal Contractor?
Yes — if more than one contractor is involved. It’s a legal requirement. If you don’t appoint them, you may still carry the responsibilities by default.
If I use subcontractors, am I considered the Principal Contractor?
Yes — unless you formally appoint someone else.
If you’re coordinating subcontractors, you are the Principal Contractor under CDM. That means you’re responsible for site safety, documentation, and managing compliance on the ground.
What are my responsibilities as a Client under CDM?
If the construction work is part of a business activity, then yes.
If you’re commissioning construction work in connection with a business — such as developing, converting, or refurbishing a property for sale, rent, or commercial use — you’re classed as a commercial client under CDM 2015. This means you’re legally responsible for appointing a Principal Designer and Principal Contractor and ensuring health and safety is managed throughout the project.
If the work is purely domestic (on your own home with no business involvement), different rules apply.
Does CDM apply to small projects like extensions or loft conversions?
Yes — if they’re done for profit or rent. The project size doesn’t exempt you if it’s a commercial activity involving construction work.
What are the risks if I don’t comply with CDM?
You risk enforcement, fines, and project shutdowns. HSE prosecutes breaches vigorously, with penalties often exceeding £40,000.
Do I need to notify the HSE?
Only if your project lasts more than 30 days with 20+ workers, or exceeds 500 person-days.
We can assess your project and submit the F10 notification if required.
How much does CDM support cost?
It depends on your project’s size and complexity. We offer tailored packages and a free initial consultation to recommend the best solution for you.
Ready to Protect Your Project? Let’s Get Started.
Book your free 15-minute CDM consultation with Compass HSC today. We’ll clarify your legal responsibilities, help you avoid costly mistakes, and create a clear, compliant plan tailored to your development.
No pressure. No jargon. Just expert advice to keep your projects safe and compliant.