Grading Framework
CIDB Grade Requirements Overview
Understand the minimum thresholds for each CIDB contractor grade â from Grade 1 entry-level registration up to Grade 9 institutional standing.
| Grade | Max Contract Value | Min Financial Capability | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | R 200,000 | R 6,000 working capital | CIRC registration only |
| 2 | R 500,000 | R 16,000 | Proof of 1 completed contract |
| 3 | R 2,000,000 | R 64,000 | 3-year track record; turnover proof |
| 4 | R 4,000,000 | R 128,000 | Audited financials required |
| 5 | R 6,500,000 | R 208,000 | Signed contracts history |
| 6 | R 13,000,000 | R 416,000 | Company tax clearance active |
| 7 | R 40,000,000 | R 1,280,000 | 5-year audited accounts |
| 8 | R 130,000,000 | R 4,160,000 | ISO or equivalent preferred |
| 9 | Unlimited | R 13,300,000+ | Full institutional standing |
âšī¸ Note: Values shown are for CE (Civil Engineering) class of works. GB (General Building), ME (Mechanical Engineering), and EB (Electrical Building) values differ. Consult cidb.org.za for the full register.
Self-Assessment Tool
Interactive CIDB Grade Checker
Enter your largest single contract value and average annual turnover to see which CIDB grade you may qualify for and what you need to reach the next level.
đ Check Your Eligible CIDB Grade
Based on CE (Civil Engineering) class of works thresholds. Results are indicative â always verify with CIDB directly.
Your Eligible Grade: â
CE Class of Works
Step-by-Step Guides
Compliance Roadmaps
Click any roadmap below to expand it and follow the step-by-step compliance pathway for your business.
Roadmap 1: CIDB Registration
- 1 Gather documents: Company registration (CIPC), certified ID copies, tax clearance certificate (SARS), and proof of any past projects.
- 2 Register on cidb.org.za: Create a contractor profile, select your works class (CE, GB, ME, or EB) and intended starting grade.
- 3 Upload proof of past projects: Completion certificates, letters of award, and payment records that demonstrate contract history.
- 4 Pay the annual CIDB fee: Fees are grade-dependent. Grade 1 is approximately R 380/year. Payment is made online through the CIDB portal.
- 5 Receive your CIDB grade certificate: Your registration number and grade certificate will be emailed. Print and keep it on site for all tender submissions.
Roadmap 2: NHBRC Home Builder Enrollment
- 1 Complete NHBRC online application: Visit nhbrc.org.za, navigate to Home Builder Enrolment, and complete the application for your company.
- 2 Submit company financials: Provide latest bank statements (3 months), audited financial statements (if available), and company registration documents.
- 3 Pay enrollment fee: Fee is calculated based on your anticipated construction volume for the year. Can be paid online or via EFT.
- 4 Attend NHBRC workshop (Grade 1â3): Smaller contractors are required to complete an NHBRC homebuilder competency workshop before enrollment is finalised.
- 5 Receive Certificate of Good Standing: This certificate is required for all residential construction tenders and must be renewed annually.
Roadmap 3: OHS & COIDA Compliance
- 1 Register with Department of Labour: Register your company as an employer under the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) at labour.gov.za.
- 2 Complete Return of Earnings (ROE) annually: Submit your earnings return by 31 March each year. Your COIDA Letter of Good Standing will be issued upon payment of the assessed amount.
- 3 Appoint a SACPCMP Safety Officer: All construction sites require a registered Health and Safety (H&S) officer registered with SACPCMP. This is mandatory for any government contract.
- 4 Maintain a Site Safety File: The OHS Act requires a current site safety file containing the H&S specification, risk assessment, emergency procedures, and plant inspection records.
- 5 Conduct weekly toolbox talks: Document and sign weekly toolbox talks covering site-specific hazards. These records are audited during CIDB and client inspections.
Roadmap 4: Tax & SARS Compliance
- 1 Ensure an active Tax Clearance Pin: Obtain your Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN from SARS eFiling. All government tenders require this pin to be verified online.
- 2 Register for VAT if turnover exceeds R 1M: Once your 12-month taxable supplies exceed R 1,000,000, VAT registration becomes compulsory. Voluntary registration is possible from R 50,000.
- 3 Submit annual returns: File your company income tax return (ITR14) and individual returns (ITR12) by the SARS deadline each year to maintain good standing.
- 4 Keep SARS eFiling up to date: Maintain correct banking details, registered address, and contact information on eFiling to avoid delays in refunds and certificate issuance.
- 5 Provide Tax Clearance to all tender submissions: Include your TCS PIN on every tender â clients and municipalities will verify it online. A lapsed clearance disqualifies your bid automatically.
Document Library
Downloadable Templates & Checklists
Standard construction compliance documents. Request any template from TBF â all templates are available free of charge to registered members.
Need One-on-One Compliance Support?
TBF's Infrastructure Commission hosts monthly contractor clinics offering personalised CIDB grade progression advice, OHS guidance, and document preparation support â free for members.