A pre-qualification questionnaire, or PQQ, helps collect information about a prospective contractor. The assessment should explain whether that evidence is relevant to the proposed work and what still needs checking. A completed questionnaire alone does not establish that the contractor can deliver every activity safely.
Define the package before asking for evidence
Describe the work, location, anticipated hazards, interfaces and supervision expectations. Ask questions that help assess that package. Avoid treating a large collection of unrelated certificates as a substitute for understanding who will do the work and how it will be managed.
HSE’s Using contractors explains the wider process of selection, risk assessment, information, cooperation and supervision. For construction, also see HSE’s guidance on appointments and capability.
Connect each answer to evidence
- Check relevant experience against the proposed type and scale of work.
- Identify the proposed team, roles, supervision and relevant skills.
- Check how work will be planned, communicated and monitored.
- Review the scope and currency of evidence, including any relevant insurance requirements agreed for the package.
- Clarify subcontracting, interfaces and who will manage them.
Record the evidence reference and what it supports. A company policy describes an arrangement; it does not by itself show how the arrangement is used on the proposed job.
A worked example of an evidence gap
Fictional learning example. This is an assessment approach, not a certification scheme or approval of a real contractor.
A contractor applies for an internal refurbishment package. Its response includes examples of similar work and a training list, but the proposed supervisor is not identified and the submission does not explain coordination with occupants.
| Question | Evidence received | Assessment and next step |
|---|---|---|
| Relevant experience | Two similar project summaries. | Discuss the contractor’s role and the interfaces on those jobs. |
| Supervision | General training list. | Request the proposed supervisor and relevant experience. Record a named assessor and response date. |
| Occupied building arrangements | No package-specific explanation. | Clarify coordination, communication and proposed management arrangements before deciding suitability. |
Record a decision that someone can understand
The assessor records “further information required” and lists the unresolved supervision and occupancy questions. The follow-up has an owner and due date. Once the response arrives, the assessor records what changed and why it affects the decision.
Use your organisation’s decision criteria. If conditions are attached to an appointment, make their scope, owners and deadlines explicit. Do not describe a contractor as approved for all work when only a particular package has been considered.
Continue the checks after selection
Confirm that the people and arrangements proposed are the ones used. Share relevant site information and coordinate interfaces. Monitor performance and respond to changes. Pre-qualification belongs within contractor management, rather than being its final step.
Where Contractorlogic fits
Contractorlogic is in development with an intended focus on PQQs and contractor assessments. Its proposed role is to structure evidence, questions and decisions. It is not currently presented as an available pilot or an automatic approval service.
For current project information workflows, explore the CDMlogic pilot. Discuss your contractor assessment workflow to help shape the wider suite.