The Building Safety Higher Risk Buildings Framework, announced by Portsmouth City Council, is set to become one of the most significant public sector opportunities in the South of England for building safety, fire protection, M&E and related specialist contractors. Valued at a substantial £144,000,000 (including VAT) over 6 years, this framework agreement will address building safety projects across a range of higher risk residential properties managed by the Council.
If you are considering bidding for the Building Safety Higher Risk Buildings Framework, our team at Thornton & Lowe can help you quickly assess the relevance and value of this opportunity to your business. Contact us here for a no-obligation review.
Why Consider the Higher Risk Buildings Framework?
This upcoming framework signals a significant investment in the modernisation and safety of Portsmouth’s residential buildings. The framework will enable suppliers specialising in electrical systems, gas safety works, heating upgrades, plumbing design, mechanical installations, and air-conditioning solutions to streamline procurement routes with Portsmouth City Council, one of the major public landlords in the region.
For building safety and M&E contractors, a place on this framework could open the door to a diverse pipeline of projects, improved collaborative working relationships, and strengthened presence in the public sector housing market. Moreover, the flexibility and breadth of a framework agreement facilitates access for organisations of all sizes, promoting innovation and competition.
Bidding Considerations for Suppliers
With publication of the tender notice estimated for late April 2026, now is the time to consider positioning your company for success. The notice confirms this opportunity will take the form of a multi-year framework agreement, supporting a range of building safety works. While the fine details will be provided in the full tender (refer to the official notice here), suppliers should review the full scope and any subdivisions or lot structures anticipated by Portsmouth City Council as soon as the tender is released.
Quick facts:
- Procurement by: Portsmouth City Council
- Type: Framework agreement for building safety works
- Total value: £144,000,000 including VAT
- Length: 6 years
- Covers: Electrical, gas, heating, plumbing, mechanical, air-con, equipment/components
- Activities: Building safety upgrades and projects for higher risk residential buildings
Key dates:
- Estimated tender publication: 27 April 2026
- Enquiry deadline: 29 May 2026
- Tender submission deadline: 5 June 2026
- Framework length: 21 August 2026 to 20 August 2030; possible extension to 20 August 2032
Tips for Preparing Your Bid
- Monitor for details on lot structure: The full framework tender could offer different lots for services (e.g., electrical, gas, M&E), enabling specialisation or consortium bids. Understanding these divisions early lets you focus your submission for maximum relevance and competitive strength.
- Emphasise experience with higher risk residential projects: The Council’s focus is on safety across challenging property types. Prepare strong project evidence and reference materials for similar work in the social housing or public residential sectors.
- Prepare for a long-term relationship: With a 6-year term and such significant value, demonstrate how your delivery model ensures reliability, compliance and resilience through contract lifetime.
- Stay updated: Procurement requirements and specifications may evolve as government guidance on building safety develops. Review all tender documents closely prior to submission.
Next Steps: Secure Your Place on Portsmouth’s Groundbreaking Framework
For suppliers of mechanical and electrical services or related building safety components, the Portsmouth City Council Building Safety Higher Risk Buildings Framework presents a prime opportunity to partner in local authority housing investment and safety transformation. The large scale and contract length offer real potential for growth and long-term business stability.
If you want to understand the specifics of this framework and how best to position your business for selection, speak to Thornton & Lowe. Our public sector experts can help with eligibility checks, compliance review, and a strategic action plan—giving you the best chance to win your place on this sought-after framework.
