Under CDM

Domestic clients have their duties largely transferred to the Principal Contractor or designer. But the duties exist — and where there is no formal Principal Contractor appointment, you may still be liable.

Under the Building Act

The owner commissioning work is responsible for ensuring it complies with the Building Regulations. The duty cannot be transferred away — only shared contractually.

What to do

Appoint a Principal Contractor in writing. Get your designer to confirm their CDM role in writing. Document the appointments — they protect you if anything goes wrong.