The construction industry is very diverse. Therefore, if you are contemplating to start or already own a construction company, you must know which sector suits you. You must identify which one you are most informed about.

There are many kinds of construction works you can choose from namely: residential, industrial and commercial construction.

 The CIDB was established by parliament to provide leadership to stakeholders, stimulate sustainable growth, reform and improve the construction sector for effective delivery and the industry’s enhanced role in the countries economy.

To be a successful contractor you must have enough information about your business. You must also know its limitations and it is advisable to seek professional advice in this regard. You must also know why you are in the construction industry.  

As a contractor you need to know that you have a role to play towards the uplifting the country’s economy. For example South Africa owes much of its economic success to its extensive infrastructure.

 These include buildings, factories, highways, ports, bridges, dams, mineshafts, etc.  They all owe their existence to a vibrant and effective construction industry that South Africa and still needs to develop further.

 To maintain and grow this infrastructure demands growth and expansion in the construction industry. That is where you role as a contractor becomes important. But, as an emerging contractor you must prove that you have potential to make a significant contribution.

For you to be able to take advantage of opportunities presented by South Africa construction industry, you need to register your company with Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). Only contractors registered with the CIDB are considered for tenders in the public sector. The CIDB register contractors for specific categories.

Your company can be registered under the building, civil, electrical, engineering categories.  It is also possible to register as a specialist or even make appropriate combinations.

After registration, your company is given a grading code according to its track record, financial and technical ability. This will qualify your company for tender projects within the specified category and grade level. The CIDB also monitors your company’s performance on an ongoing basis to establish a track record. You will benefit in the long run as the growing track record will enable you to do bigger projects.

By registering with the CIBD you also put your company in a better position to get jobs as your company details will be put in the database of companies that would like to do business with the public sector.

Being on the database of the client (government departments) saves you from applying for jobs you won’t manage to complete. You only qualify for jobs that match your grading designation.

 Registration enhances the success rate of construction by matching contractor capability with appropriate work opportunity. It enhances your company’s ability. It also allows you to identify suitable partners and subcontractors. So it is important to register you Construction Company if you want to do public sector tenders.