Designer

Who is a designer under CDM?

A designer is an organisation or individual whose business involves preparing or modifying designs for construction projects, or arranging for, or instructing, others to do this. Designs include drawings, design details, specifications, bills of quantity and design calculations.

Under CDM there are 2 designer roles:  Principal designer and designer

Can a landscape contractor be a principal designer or designer under CDM?

Yes. Anyone who specifies and alters designs as part of their work on commercial or domestic projects is a designer.  Designers may also be principal contractors, specialist contractors and tradespeople.

Both principal designers and designers need skills, knowledge and experience for the role they are fulfilling. Click the buttons at the bottom of this page to learn more about the roles. 

How do I know if I am a principal designer or designer on a project?

A principal designer is only required when more than one contractor (or sub-contractor) is working on a domestic or commercial project from start to finish.  Single contractor projects do not require a principal designer.  

On a commerical project with more than one contractor, principal designers and designers must be appointed - in writing - by the client at the start of the project.  Speak to your client if in any doubt of your role.  

On a domestic project with only one contractor (i.e. you), it is likely you will play the role of the designer.  

Do principal designers and designers require specific skills to carry out their duties?

Yes.  Click on the buttons below to learn more about the skills a principal designer or designer must have to ensure their duties can be carried out in a way to ensure health and safety, and what their role involves.