Framework
In very general terms, the word ‘framework’ refers to a structure that underpins or supports a system or concept.
In the construction industry the word ‘framework’ has a number of more specific meanings:
- A framework agreement or framework contract which allows a client to invite tenders from suppliers of goods and services to be carried out over a period of time on a call-off basis as and when required. For more information see: Framework agreement.
- The structural frame of a building or other built asset such as a bridge, tunnel and so on. For more information see: Types of frame.
- The legislative framework underpinning the industry or an aspect of it. For more information see; Legislative framework.
See also
- Framework agreement.
- Framework arrangement.
- Framework contract.
- Framework tendering.
- Legislative Framework.
Other uses of the word framework in the construction industry include:
- BSI Flex 8670. Core Criteria for Building Safety Competence Frameworks
- CIAT Principal Designer Competency Framework
- Design Framework for Building Services 4th Edition (BG 6/2014)
- Local development framework.
- London View Management Framework.
- National planning policy framework.
- Opportunity Area Planning Framework (OAPF)
- PAS 181:2014 Smart city Framework
- Soft landings framework.
- Strategic ecology framework SEF
- UK BIM Framework.
- Water framework directive
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- BSI Flex 8670. Core Criteria for Building Safety Competence Frameworks
- Framework agreement.
- Framework arrangement.
- Framework contract.
- Framework tendering.
- Framework for net-zero carbon buildings launched in parliament.
- Legislative Framework.
- Local development framework LDF.
- London View Management Framework SPG.
- National planning policy framework NPPF.
- PAS 181:2014 Smart city Framework.
- Productivity in construction: Creating a framework for the industry to thrive.
- Soft landings framework.
- Strategic ecology framework SEF.
- Water framework directive.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Building Safety Wiki Interviews
Chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.




















