The Procurement Act 2023 represents one of the most significant overhauls of public sector procurement rules in the UK in decades. Having come into force in early 2025, this legislation replaces the complex web of EU-derived regulations that previously governed how public contracts were awarded. For roofing contractors, particularly those seeking work on government and public buildings, this Act introduces a new set of opportunities and challenges.
What Is the Procurement Act?
The Procurement Act 2023 is designed to simplify and streamline the way public sector bodies, including central government departments, local councils, schools, and NHS trusts, buy goods, services, and works. The Act consolidates four major sets of regulations into a single, unified framework. These include:
• The Public Contracts Regulations 2015
• The Utilities Contracts Regulations 2016
• The Concession Contracts Regulations 2016
• The Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011
The goals of the new legislation include promoting transparency, improving value for money, encouraging innovation, and supporting SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises).
Key Changes for Contractors
For roofing contractors who wish to secure government or public sector projects, the Procurement Act introduces several key changes:
1. Simplified Procurement Procedures
Previously, contractors often had to navigate a maze of different procurement routes and procedures. The new Act simplifies this into fewer, more flexible procedures, making it easier for roofing firms to understand and participate in tenders.
2. Greater Transparency
One of the core principles of the Act is transparency. Contracting authorities are now required to publish more detailed notices at various stages of the procurement process. For roofing contractors, this means earlier and clearer access to upcoming opportunities and better visibility into how decisions are made.
3. Faster Processes
The Act aims to reduce the time between a contract being advertised and awarded. This is particularly beneficial for roofing companies that may have limited capacity for long and uncertain bidding cycles. Faster award processes could help firms better plan and allocate resources.
4. Focus on Social Value and Local Impact
Contracting authorities are encouraged to consider the broader social, economic, and environmental impact of their procurement decisions. Roofing contractors that offer local employment, use sustainable materials, or contribute to community initiatives may have a competitive advantage under the new rules.
5. More Opportunities for SMEs
The government has expressed a strong commitment to helping smaller businesses win public sector work. Measures in the Act include reducing unnecessary bureaucracy, allowing more direct contract awards in certain cases, and increasing the visibility of subcontracting opportunities. Roofing contractors with fewer employees or regional footprints could find more doors open to them.
Challenges to Consider
While the Procurement Act aims to create a more level playing field, it also introduces stricter compliance and accountability requirements. Roofing firms must ensure that they:
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive documentation.
• Demonstrate value for money, quality standards, and relevant experience.
• Comply with new standards for contract performance and termination.
Smaller contractors may still find the administrative burden significant, especially when competing against larger firms with dedicated bid-writing teams. However, the Act encourages authorities to avoid unnecessarily complex tender processes, which could help level the playing field.
Conclusion
The UK Procurement Act 2023 is poised to reshape how public sector contracts are awarded and managed. For roofing contractors, it offers a mix of opportunity and responsibility. Simplified procedures, increased transparency, and a focus on social value can benefit agile, community-focused firms. However, success in this new landscape will depend on a contractor’s ability to stay informed, adapt to new requirements, and demonstrate consistent performance.
