The fitted interiors industry is being given a unique opportunity to shape the future of competence across the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installation sector as an industry-wide consultation launches on a proposed Competency Framework Agreement, the culmination of an 18-month collaborative project led by the British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists and the CITB.
The 30-day consultation marks a significant milestone in a joint effort to establish a consistent and effective approach to competency for the sector following the publication of the Building a Safer Future Report – Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety in May 2018 and the subsequent formation of The Competence Steering Group – set up to tackle competence shortcomings identified in the report.
In February 2025, BIFIS assembled the Fitted Interiors Competency Framework Working Group, with representation from all areas of the fitted interiors sector including manufacturers, retailers, installers, training providers and industry bodies, and supported by CITB to develop the Fitted Interiors (FI) Competence Framework.
The aim of the framework is to establish a structured, standardised approach for assessing and ensuring the competencies of installers working in the Fitted Interiors sector. The framework serves to address the growing demand for high-quality and safe installations, promoting the development of skilled professionals who meet industry standards.
The framework outlines key competencies required for Fitted Interiors, including installation, health and safety, training and qualification landscape and any re-validation requirements. It is designed to guide training programmes, qualifications, employers, workers, regulatory bodies across the industry. This competency model is intended to reduce risks, improve building performance, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
Key components of the framework include:
- Routes to Competence: Identification of the recognised routes to achieving competence.
- Competency Levels: Clear definitions of the Skills, Knowledge, Experience & Behaviours required for each function and role within the Fitted Interiors sector.
- Technical Skills: A comprehensive understanding of materials, techniques, and equipment used within Fitted Interiors.
- Health and Safety: Emphasis on safety standards to minimise accidents and ensure safe working environments.
- Sustainability and Efficiency: Incorporating best practices for energy efficiency, sustainability, and the long-term performance of fitted interior installations.
The framework is intended for use by industry professionals, training providers, and regulatory bodies to create a consistent and accountable approach to competency in fitted interior installations. By ensuring that installers meet the framework’s requirements, the industry can improve the quality of fitted interior projects and support regulatory compliance.
The 30-day industry consultation period commenced on 24 June, until 24 July, and provides all stakeholders with the opportunity to review the proposed agreement and ensure it reflects the needs of the industry before it is finalised.
“The Competency Framework Agreement represents an important step towards greater consistency and confidence in how competence is defined and demonstrated across the industry,” said Damian Walters, BIFIS CEO. “We encourage everyone with an interest in workforce competence to review the document and share their views so that the final agreement is practical, inclusive, and fit for the future. Moreover, we urge all industry stakeholders to share the opportunity to contribute to shaping the future of our sector with their respective audiences.”
Damian went on to say: “It is vital that our industry has input into what will be an important foundation for the future of the sector, including the topic of licensing, which I have been alluding to for some time.”
The consultation is open to installation businesses, retailers, manufacturers, employers, industry federations, professional bodies, training providers, certification organisations, contractors, and individuals working across the fitted interiors environment.
Feedback received during the consultation will be reviewed by the project steering group before the Competency Framework Agreement is finalised and published.
Consultation details:
Consultation opens: Wednesday 24 June 2026
Consultation closes: Friday 24 July 2026
How to respond:
Review the Fitted Interiors Competence Framework Agreement and complete the survey here.
You can also join us for an exclusive webinar: Shaping the future of Fitted Interiors (Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms) on Thursday 16 July at 9:00-10:00am. Click here to register.
ABOUT
The British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists (BIFIS) is the UK’s first and only Government sanctioned institute dedicated to the fitted interiors sector, formally known as The British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) – The name change was made in October 2025. The organisation works with professional tradespeople, retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors of fitted interiors product to define industry standards, support skills development and provide the industry with a national and collaborative voice.
BIFIS accredited national registration comprises of 5,000+ trade businesses, together with a network of local, regional, and national specialist retailers and a growing number of major national and international manufacturers and suppliers.
Thanks to this the organisation is able to provide consumers with reassurance of compliance, while representing the shared interests of sole traders, SMEs and major national and international businesses working in one of the most important parts of the UK economy.