A new Repairs & Maintenance and Planned Works Services Framework is being developed by CDS Co-operatives, with Plentific acting as managing agent. The notice sets out plans for an open framework covering repairs, maintenance, consultancy, planned works and major works services delivered to domestic and commercial properties across the UK. While the estimated contract value is currently listed as £0, the framework structure, long term and open access model still make it a notable opportunity for contractors working in housing, property maintenance and building services.
This is not a standard closed framework with a single admission point. CDS says the framework will reopen on a six-monthly basis to admit new suppliers, with earlier reopening possible if demand or supply chain needs require it. Suppliers that are successfully onboarded will keep their approved status, provided they continue to meet compliance and performance requirements. That makes this an interesting route to market for businesses that want more than a one-off framework application.
What the framework is expected to cover
The notice indicates that services will span a broad mix of housing and property-related works. Domestic properties are expected to include bungalows, blocks of flats and co-operative housing schemes, while commercial properties may include business units, office buildings and community centres. The listed CPV codes point to requirements covering:
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building installation work
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building completion work
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repair and maintenance of building installations
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mechanical and electrical equipment installation
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fire protection equipment installation
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miscellaneous repair and maintenance services
That breadth means the framework could be relevant to a wide mix of suppliers, including general repairs contractors, planned works specialists, M&E contractors, fire safety providers and businesses able to support social housing and wider property portfolios.
Key dates
The current Find a Tender notice gives suppliers a useful timeline:
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Estimated tender notice publication date: 30 April 2026
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Tender submission deadline: 8 June 2026 at 11:59pm
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Estimated award decision date: 22 June 2026
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Estimated framework term: 30 June 2026 to 29 June 2034
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Next tender notice expected: 30 October 2026
Those dates matter because this is an open framework designed to run over a long period, rather than a one-off procurement exercise that closes the market completely.
Why this opportunity stands out
The most interesting aspect of this framework is its structure. CDS confirms that it will be established under the Procurement Act 2023 as an open framework, with unlimited suppliers and both mini-competition and direct award available for call-off contracts.
That is particularly relevant for contractors that may have strong operational capability but have found entry into heavily capped frameworks more difficult. The notice also says the framework is intended to be accessible to contractors of all sizes, including SMEs, VCSEs, regional contractors and larger national providers.
There is, however, a clear compliance threshold. Suppliers will need a Central Digital Platform account, SSIP accreditation, relevant references for housing maintenance contracts, evidence of organisational capacity, and a clear approach to resident engagement, quality control and social value. Suppliers and subcontractors must also be members of relevant Competent Person Schemes or trade associations where applicable.
Another important detail is pricing. CDS says suppliers must be familiar with M3NHF Schedule of Rates pricing and willing to quote using M3NHF SOR, while also being capable of alternative pricing models such as price per job and price per property. That signals a framework likely to appeal to housing and property contractors already comfortable working within social housing pricing models.
How Thornton & Lowe can support contractors
For contractors considering this framework, the key is to prepare early and practically. A pass/fail admission model can sound straightforward, but open frameworks still reward suppliers that present their compliance, capability and delivery approach clearly. The verification stage will be visible to contracting authorities using the framework, so the quality of your submission matters even before individual call-offs begin.
Thornton & Lowe supports contractors bidding for construction tenders and works with suppliers looking to win places on construction frameworks. That support can include reviewing whether the framework is the right fit, identifying gaps in compliance evidence, improving responses around resident engagement and quality control, and helping contractors think ahead to how they will compete for work after admission.
For businesses new to open frameworks, we also help clients understand the wider strategic picture around frameworks and how to use them as part of a broader public sector growth plan. A framework place only creates opportunity if the supplier is also ready to convert that access into contract wins.
Final thoughts
The Repairs & Maintenance and Planned Works Services Framework looks like a worthwhile opportunity for contractors operating in housing, property maintenance and building services. Its long term, open structure and broad supplier accessibility make it stand out, even though the published value is currently listed as zero.
For the right suppliers, this is the kind of opportunity that is worth approaching with a clear plan. Early preparation should make it easier to meet the admission requirements, present a stronger submission and put your business in a better position for future call-off work.
