For construction contractors and clients across the UK, the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) is widely recognised as the gold standard for prequalification in public sector projects. Achilles, as an official CAS provider, works closely with the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) to support its adoption on the upcoming Construction Works and Associated Services 3 Framework (2026–2034).
Understanding CAS and completing a CAS audit can help UK contractors streamline compliance, reduce supply chain risk, and access new public sector opportunities.
Learn more about how Achilles works with Crown Commercial Service.
What Is the Common Assessment Standard (CAS)?
The Common Assessment Standard (CAS) is a standardised prequalification assessment that helps contractors demonstrate compliance across multiple risk areas. Designed to improve supply chain efficiency, CAS provides clients with confidence that contractors are competent, compliant, and capable of managing risk across all aspects of construction projects.
What does a CAS Audit Cover?
CAS is comprehensive, covering 13 areas of risk management relevant to UK construction and associated services:
- Identity – Confirms legal registration and ability to operate in the UK.
- Financial – Evaluates financial stability and risk management processes.
- Insurance – Checks business insurance coverage to protect against accidents, mistakes, and liability.
- Corporate and Professional Standing – Examines criminal records, corruption risks, and compliance with anti-terrorism and anti-trafficking measures.
- Health and Safety – Ensures robust procedures to protect workers, visitors, and the public.
- Environmental – Assesses environmental policies, impact reduction, and compliance with UK environmental standards.
- Quality – Confirms quality management systems prevent errors and maintain project standards.
- Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) – Demonstrates commitment to fair treatment and workplace diversity.
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) – Reviews social and community impact initiatives.
- Information Security – Ensures GDPR compliance and robust protection of personal data.
- Information Management – Reviews processes for handling, controlling, and storing project information.
- Anti-Bribery and Corruption – Verifies procedures to prevent bribery across your organisation.
- Modern Slavery – Confirms steps to mitigate the risk of human trafficking and exploitation in your supply chain.
How does a CAS Audit Work?
Achilles provides flexible assessment options:
- Desktop Assessment – Conducted remotely, reviewing documentation against CAS standards.
- On-Site Audit – Verifies policies and procedures in practice, ensuring compliance is effectively implemented.
Annual reassessment ensures that documentation such as insurance certificates, risk assessments, and company policies remain current and relevant.
Who Should Consider a CAS Audit?
CAS is suitable for all construction and associated service providers across the UK, from micro-businesses with fewer than five employees to large enterprises. Smaller contractors benefit from streamlined assessment criteria, while larger organisations can demonstrate robust compliance across complex projects.
What are the Key Benefits of a CAS Audit?
1. Streamline Compliance
A CAS audit consolidates multiple prequalification requirements into a single, standardised process, saving time and reducing administrative overhead.
2. Unlock New UK Public Sector Opportunities
Contractors achieving CAS certification gain access to a wide range of public sector clients. Certification signals professionalism and reliability, helping businesses prequalify for contracts and maximise visibility.
3. Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience
Clients benefit from greater transparency and control across supply chains. CAS ensures that all contractors meet defined standards, reducing risk and improving efficiency. Real-time compliance updates enable proactive interventions to prevent costly project delays.
4. Demonstrate Commitment to Risk Management
CAS certification provides clear evidence of your organisation’s commitment to safety, quality, ethics, and environmental responsibility, strengthening trust with clients, stakeholders, and employees.
5. Future-Proof Your Organisation
With public sector adoption of CAS under Procurement Policy Notes (PPN 03/24), certification ensures contractors are ready for upcoming frameworks, helping secure long-term contracts with UK public sector bodies.
Why Choose Achilles for your CAS Audit?
Achilles is widely recognised as the leading CAS Audit provider in the UK. As an official CAS provider and partner to Crown Commercial Service, we offer expert guidance, training, and support throughout the assessment process as well as access to public sector business opportunities. With user-friendly online portals and dedicated support, achieving CAS compliance in the UK has never been easier.
Achilles is helping set the industry standard, making CAS the trusted benchmark for compliance, risk management, and procurement efficiency across UK construction and associated services.