The most common reason small firms never bid for public work is the assumption that they're not eligible. Usually they are. Here's what buyers actually require for small (below-threshold) contracts — and what's optional.
Almost always required
- ☐ Public liability insurance — £5m is the common ask for council works; £2m sometimes suffices for services. You can often buy cover conditional on winning.
- ☐ Employer's liability insurance — legally required anyway if you employ anyone.
- ☐ Two references — comparable jobs; private clients are fine for a first public bid.
- ☐ Basic financial standing — filed accounts or equivalent; expect a proportionality check (contract value vs your turnover), which small contracts pass by design.
- ☐ Trade certifications — whatever your trade already requires (Gas Safe, NICEIC/NAPIT, FENSA, etc.).
Frequently required for works
- ☐ Written H&S policy — a legal requirement at 5+ employees; sensible anyway.
- ☐ SSIP membership (CHAS, SafeContractor, Constructionline…) — one scheme is usually enough; mutual recognition applies. Typical cost £300–600/yr — only buy it when a live tender demands it.
- ☐ RAMS (risk assessments & method statements) — job-specific; templates make the second one fast.
Sometimes required — don't buy in advance
- ☐ ISO 9001/14001 (usually only larger contracts; "equivalent processes" often accepted)
- ☐ Cyber Essentials (data-handling contracts)
- ☐ DBS checks (schools/care settings — arranged per contract)
Deal-breakers to check before writing anything
- The deadline — is there realistically time?
- Site visits — some tenders require attendance; miss it and you're out.
- TUPE — service contracts may transfer existing staff to you; understand it before pricing.
- Framework-only notices — check whether it's a real job or a supplier-list application.
Next step: open something on the live board and read one real notice against this checklist — most firms find they already qualify. Then get matched contracts by email.
General information based on published UK tender documents and GOV.UK guidance — not legal, insurance or procurement advice. Requirements vary by buyer; the notice always wins.
← All guides