If you’re in the building industry and want to apply for government tenders or housing projects in South Africa, you’ll need to be registered with the NHBRC (National Home Builders Registration Council). Without registration, your company is not legally allowed to build new homes—and your tender applications will be rejected.
For many Black-owned construction SMEs, understanding how NHBRC works, what it costs, and how to register step by step is essential to breaking into the housing and infrastructure space.
1. What Is the NHBRC and Why Does It Matter?
The NHBRC is a regulatory body that protects housing consumers and ensures builders meet quality standards.
- All home builders and construction companies must register with the NHBRC.
- It is a legal requirement under the Housing Consumer Protection Measures Act.
- NHBRC also provides warranties and protection to homeowners in case of defects.
If you are not registered, you cannot legally build residential properties or apply for housing tenders.
2. Who Needs NHBRC Registration?
- Construction companies building new homes
- Property developers delivering residential projects
- SME builders applying for RDP housing tenders
- Any contractor involved in government housing programmes
3. Documents Required for Registration
To register with NHBRC, prepare:
- Company registration documents (CIPC)
- Certified ID copies of directors/owners
- Tax compliance details (SARS PIN)
- B-BBEE affidavit or certificate
- Bank confirmation letter
- Proof of address (municipal account/lease)
- Technical staff qualifications or CVs (where applicable)
4. Step-by-Step: How to Register
Step 1: Apply Online or at NHBRC Office
- Go to https://www.nhbrc.org.za
- Complete the online application or visit a regional office
Step 2: Pay Application Fee
- Application fee: ±R745 (non-refundable)
Step 3: Attend the Builder Induction Workshop
- Compulsory induction explaining NHBRC rules, building standards, and compliance
Step 4: Provide Compliance Documents
- Submit company details, tax status, and proof of qualifications/experience
Step 5: Pay Annual Membership Fee
- Fees depend on company turnover (see costs below)
Step 6: Receive NHBRC Registration Certificate
- Once approved, you’ll get a certificate valid for 12 months
5. Costs of NHBRC Registration
- Application Fee: ±R745 (once-off, non-refundable)
- Annual Membership Fee: Based on turnover
- Turnover ≤ R1m: ±R526
- Turnover R1m–R10m: ±R1,500
- Turnover R10m–R50m: ±R2,600
- Turnover ≥ R50m: ±R5,300
Fees are reviewed by NHBRC annually—always confirm the latest rates.
6. How to Renew or Upgrade
- Renewal is required annually with updated documents and fees
- Upgrade your category as turnover and project size increase
- Keep track of compliance to avoid suspension
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to attend the compulsory induction workshop
- Submitting incomplete company documents
- Not renewing annually (leading to suspension)
- Thinking subcontractors don’t need registration (they do if building homes)
8. How etenderportal.co.za Helps
On etenderportal.co.za you can:
- Find tenders that specifically require NHBRC registration
- Access compliance guides for SMEs entering construction tenders
- Stay updated on renewal deadlines and registration requirements
9. Final Tips
- Register with NHBRC before bidding on housing tenders
- Keep your membership active with annual renewals
- Build a compliance file with all your documents ready
- Invest in training and induction to ensure quality standards
Government tenders are one of the most powerful ways to grow your construction business — if you’re prepared and compliant. NHBRC registration is your license to compete in housing projects and protect your clients.