Determine Your CIDB Grading Designation
Are you ready to upgrade but unsure of your eligibility? The CIDB Grading Designation Calculator helps you determine the potential tender range your business qualifies for when applying for grading registration at the CIDB.
How the Grading Designation is Determined
Your contractor grading designation is determined by your financial capability and your works capability.
1. Financial Capability
Your contractor grading designation is based on your financial capability, which includes:
✅ Turnover: The financial history of your business.
✅ Completed Contracts: The value of contracts you have successfully completed.
✅ Available Capital: The liquid cash resources available to you, such as bank balances, loans, and financial sponsorships.
These factors collectively determine your financial strength and ability to sustain contracts.
2. Works Capability
Your works capability is assessed by:
✅ Largest Contract: The most substantial contract you’ve undertaken in your class of construction works.
✅ Professional Workforce: The number of qualified professionals you employ.
✅ Statutory Compliance: Fulfillment of relevant statutory requirements.
This capability reflects your experience and capacity to manage projects within your registered class of works.
CIDB Grading Tool - Easy way to assess your potential grading
Upgrading your CIDB contractor grading designation is crucial for securing public sector projects. By enhancing your grading, you can apply for higher-value tenders, expanding your business opportunities.
Government entities—including national, provincial, municipal, and state-owned enterprises—rely on this grading to determine whether your tender will be considered for specific construction contracts.
For instance, with a 5CE registration, you’re eligible to tender for civil engineering works contracts valued at up to R6.5 million. If you hold dual registrations, such as 5CE and 8ME, you can also bid on mechanical engineering contracts worth up to R130 million.
Take advantage of the CIDB grading tool to assess and upgrade your designation, positioning your business for greater success in the public sector.
Special Considerations for Joint Ventures
When participating in a joint venture, the main member must already have an active grading in the relevant category of works. This ensures that the joint venture meets the CIDB requirements for the intended class of construction.
You can visit the CIDB Joint Venture calculator here.
