Professional Body status for the Chartered Institute of Housing

Published: October 15, 2018

CSCS are pleased to confirm that Chartered Member and Fellow grades at the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) are now eligible for the Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) card.

Although it is not a legislative requirement, most contractors and major home builders require site workers to hold a valid CSCS card. The scheme keeps a record of those working in the construction sector who have achieved or are committed to completing a recognised construction-related qualification. Site managers check the information on the card using a smartphone, tablet, or PC, giving them reassurance that the cardholder is qualified for the job they do on site.

CSCS worked closely with the CIH to carry out a detailed mapping exercise of their membership criteria and the PQP card can now be offered to Chartered Members and Fellows of the institute.  Certified Practitioners are eligible to apply for a trainee CSCS card.

Vanessa Howell, Head of Professional Standards at CIH said: “As the home of professional standards for the housing sector we are very proud of our chartered status, so we value this recognition from CSCS and the opportunity for our respective sectors to collaborate together.

“The majority of contractors and house builders require construction workers on their sites to hold a valid CSCS card, so being eligible for the Professionally Qualified Person card will be seen by CIH chartered and fellow members who regularly visit construction sites as a great benefit.”

CSCS Director of Operations Gordon Jenkins said: “This is another example of the industry working together to improve standards and safety on UK construction sites. The CIH have been maintaining professional standards in housing for many years and it is their commitment to continual professional development that really ties in with the objectives of the PQP card.”

The PQP card is valid for five years and all applicants must pass the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment Test.

When applying for this card applicants will need to provide a copy of their current CIH membership certificate (or card) or supply a letter/email from the CIH confirming that they are a current, competence assessed member.  Employers can apply for a card using the online application process on the CSCS website.

You can apply for this card over the phone by calling 0344 99 44 777.

You will need to email evidence of your CIH membership level to cscs@citb.co.uk prior to calling.