The Quality Plus Scheme is designed to recognise subcontractors for excellence in quality, compliance, and operational standards. Accreditation badges—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—demonstrate to main contractors, clients, and other stakeholders that a subcontractor has met or exceeded specific benchmarks of performance, reliability, and professionalism.
These badges serve not only as proof of competence but also help subcontractors win more work by boosting credibility in competitive tendering processes.

Bronze Badge – Foundation Level

Who it’s for:
New or small subcontractors starting on the journey toward quality assurance and compliance.

Typical Requirements:
Basic compliance with health and safety legislation as well as Quality Compliance (e.g., risk assessments, method statements, quality policy). Valid public and employer liability insurance. Proof of relevant trade qualifications and certifications. A simple quality management process, even if informal. Submission of references or client testimonials from previous work. Adherence to industry codes of conduct.

Assessment:
A desk-based review of submitted documents, possibly followed by a brief remote interview or questionnaire on site. Also Site Score based during inspections.

Silver Badge – Intermediate Level

Who it’s for: Subcontractors who have established systems and are regularly working with main contractors on medium- to large-scale projects.

Typical Requirements:
Full health, safety, environmental, and quality policies (SHEQ). Evidence of ongoing staff training and development. Documented quality control procedures or alignment with ISO 9001 standards. Demonstrated use of environmentally sustainable practices (e.g., waste reduction, energy efficiency). Record of consistent on-time delivery and customer satisfaction. Monitoring and documentation of non-conformance and corrective actions.

Assessment:
More in-depth than Bronze, possibly including site audits or evidence of previous project performance.

Gold Badge – Advanced Level

Who it’s for: Highly professional subcontractors operating at the top of their trade, often involved in complex or high-value projects.

Typical Requirements:
Full integration with recognized management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001). Comprehensive risk management and continual improvement processes. Active CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and community engagement initiatives. Detailed performance tracking and KPIs, including client feedback. Proven track record of excellence in safety, quality, environmental stewardship, and client satisfaction. Participation in industry benchmarking or innovation programs. Assessment: A full audit (on-site or third-party), detailed documentation review, and possibly interviews with senior leadership.

How to Apply for Accreditation
Register on the Quality Plus+ portal Click the Blue PQQ Application on the top right. Complete self-assessment or external audit, depending on the badge level. Receive your badge, typically valid for Duration of the Project, with opportunities to upgrade as your business grows.

Tips for Success
Start with Bronze and build up—each badge level strengthens your systems. Keep your documentation organised and up to date. Be proactive: conduct internal audits to prepare for external assessments. Gather consistent feedback from clients and projects—it strengthens your application. Ensure all your Quality Paperwork and site work is upto date and valid for the duration of your project