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CIDB Registration

Last updated: February 2026

The Construction Industry Development Board registration is required for contractors on government and large commercial projects.

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The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) regulates the construction industry in South Africa. CIDB registration is required for contractors working on government contracts and is often required for large commercial projects. For solar installations on these projects, the installer must have appropriate CIDB grading.

What is CIDB?

CIDB was established to promote the growth of the construction industry and ensure quality workmanship. Contractors are graded from 1 to 9 based on their financial capability, track record, and qualifications. The grading determines what value of contracts they can undertake.

CIDB was established to promote the growth of the construction industry and ensure quality workmanship. Contractors are graded from 1 to 9 based on their financial capability, track record, and qualifications. The grading determines what value of contracts they can undertake.

CIDB Grading System

gradeGrade 1
valueUp to R200,000
typicalSmall residential
gradeGrade 2
valueUp to R650,000
typicalResidential/small commercial
gradeGrade 3
valueUp to R2 million
typicalMedium commercial
gradeGrade 4
valueUp to R4 million
typicalCommercial systems
gradeGrade 5
valueUp to R6.5 million
typicalLarge commercial
gradeGrade 6-9
valueR13M - Unlimited
typicalIndustrial/utility scale

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When CIDB Registration is Required

CIDB registration is needed for:

  • All government/public sector contracts
  • State-owned enterprise projects
  • Some large commercial projects (client requirement)
  • Projects funded by development finance institutions
  • Subcontracting on CIDB-registered projects

CIDB Category for Solar

Solar installations typically fall under the "Electrical Engineering" works category (EP-E). Contractors must be registered in this category at an appropriate grade for the project value. For pure electrical work, the "EB" subcategory applies. Some projects may require "ME" (Mechanical Engineering) registration if significant structural work is involved.

Solar installations typically fall under the "Electrical Engineering" works category (EP-E). Contractors must be registered in this category at an appropriate grade for the project value. For pure electrical work, the "EB" subcategory applies. Some projects may require "ME" (Mechanical Engineering) registration if significant structural work is involved.

Related Pages

ECA CertificationB-BBEE LevelsCommercial Installers

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CIDB Registration FAQs

For private residential installations, CIDB registration is not required. It's only mandatory for government/public sector work and sometimes required for commercial projects.
Use the CIDB website contractor search tool. Enter the company name or registration number to verify their grade and active categories.
Certifications prove an installer has the training, insurance, and experience to safely install your solar system. Uncertified installers can void your equipment warranty, create safety hazards, and leave you without recourse if something goes wrong.
Yes. Most certifying bodies have online databases where you can verify membership. We provide direct links to verification databases on each certification page. Always verify before hiring.
Using an uncertified installer can void your equipment warranties, invalidate your home insurance, make you liable for any accidents or damage, and prevent you from getting a COC which is legally required.

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