SACPCMP Registration Update – Limited Special Dispensation

The South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) has introduced new registration rules effective from 1 August 2025, along with a Limited Special Dispensation.

1. New Qualification Requirement

Applicants must hold a relevant qualification aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), accredited by SAQA and align with the SACPCMP competency framework for the specific registration category.

Core requirements in the Rules:

• Professional Construction Manager / Professional Construction Project Manager: NQF 8 (480 credits)
• Professional Construction Health and Safety Agent: NGQ7 (360 credits)
• CHSO: NQF 5 (120 credits)
• Minimum experience required (4-10 years depending on category)
• CPD and annual fee compliance to maintain registration

All qualifications submitted for registration must be verified through MIE (Managed Integrity Evaluation).

Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal offers MIE verification services to both members of the Association and the general public at a competitive cost. This service includes verification of qualifications, professional memberships, criminal records, ID documents and credit checks.

Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the Association directly for more information and pricing.

2. Purpose of the Limited Special Dispensation

The limited special dispensation aims to broaden access to professional registration for individuals who are actively working in the construction sector but may not meet the new qualification or competency standards immediately. It was developed over three years in collaboration with industry stakeholders to ensure that the professionalisation of the sector does not prejudice experienced practitioners who lack formal qualifications. Many applicants have practical experience but lack the formal NQF level qualifications that is now required. The dispensation allows them to register provisionally and upskill through CPD and Initial Professional Development Modules (IPDM) modules during a 3 year cycle.

2.1 Temporary Exemptions

It provides temporary exemptions from certain qualification and competency requirements under the Project and Construction Management Professions Act (Act 48 of 2000). It applies to new applicants, valid from 1 August 2025 to 30 July 2027.

2.2 Key Exemptions

Lower NQF thresholds accepted for registration:

2.4 Next Steps

Registered persons under the dispensation must meet annual targets for completing modules and CPD courses. Failure to comply may lead to suspension or cancellation of registration.

Prudence Mandisa Khumalo | Learning and Development Manager