Building contractor grading under scrutiny in KZN

THE Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) says it has initiated a probe following allegations suggesting a possible link between project failures within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport and the grading of contractors appointed to execute these projects.

The CIDB says it has noted concerns reportedly raised regarding contractors who, despite holding higher CIDB gradings, have failed to deliver on projects within the expected timelines and quality standards.

These allegations are serious, as they strike at the core of the CIDB’s mandate to ensure a credible, transparent, and efficient construction industry.

Bongani Dladla (pictured), CIDB CEO says “We take these allegations very seriously. Our grading system exists to ensure that contractors possess the capability to execute the projects they are awarded. Any suggestion that this system may be compromised, misused, or misunderstood warrants immediate attention”.

The probe will focus on understanding the nature of the allegations, evaluating the grading processes applied to the contractors in question, and assessing whether any irregularities or gaps in compliance may have contributed to project underperformance.

The CIDB  says it will also seek further engagement with the Kwazulu-Natal Department of Transport to obtain detailed information on the affected projects and the contractors involved. This collaborative approach will enable both parties to establish the facts and ensure that corrective actions are taken where necessary.

“We will remain committed to safeguarding the integrity of our grading system and ensuring that public infrastructure projects are delivered by capable and compliant contractors. Where wrongdoing or misrepresentation is identified, the CIDB will not hesitate to take decisive action”, Dladla added.

According to The Mercury, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlement MEC Siboniso Duma and CFO Thabani Nkosi made the revelations during a briefing by their department to members of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature Finance Portfolio Committee.