Understanding CIDB Grading in 2026
Confused by Grade 1GB vs. 4CE? We decode the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading system so you know exactly which tenders you can bid for.
The Gatekeeper of Construction
If you are in construction, the CIDB Grade is your passport. Without it, you cannot touch public sector infrastructure work. The grade serves two purposes: it protects the client (government) from giving a R100 million bridge project to a company that has only built a garden wall, and it gives contractors a clear growth path.
Decoding the Code: Grade + Class
A CIDB designation looks like this: 4GB. This is split into two parts:
- The Number (4): This is your financial capability and track record level. It determines the maximum value of the contract you can handle.
- The Letters (GB): This is the class of works. GB = General Building. You cannot use a GB grading to bid for an Electrical (EB) project.
Contract Values for 2026
The values change periodically to account for inflation. Currently, a Grade 1 is capped at R500,000. A Grade 4 is capped at R4 million. A Grade 6 jumps to R13 million. Knowing these thresholds is critical so you don't waste time pricing tenders you are legally disqualified from.
Find Your Grade
Not sure if your last project qualifies you for an upgrade? Use our CIDB Calculator. It checks your 'Largest Single Contract' against the requirements.
Tags
Based on this article's topics, here are some current tenders that might interest you
ADDENDUM NO.3 - THE COMPLETION OF UPGRADING TO A SURFACE STANDARD DR08606 (+/- 12Km) STERKSPRUIT TO MLAMLI
Maokeng (Koekoe Village): Upgrading of 0.85km Smaldeel Road to a Paved Road and Stormwater - Phase 1.
UPGRADING OF J MAASDORP SPORTGROUNDS
UPGRADING OF TAFELKOP-BAPEDING INTERNAL ACCESS ROADS AND STORMWATER CONTROL
CONSTRUCTION OF THE QUIBT STREET MIDBLOCK SEWER REMOVAL
Tender Cancellation - Excitation System Replacement for Units 1 and 2 at Vanderkloof Power Station
Want to see all available tenders?
Browse All Tenders →Share this article
Understanding CIDB Grading in 2026
Confused by Grade 1GB vs. 4CE? We decode the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading system so you know exactly which tenders you can bid for.