In the UK construction sector, Right to Work (RTW) compliance is no longer just a recruitment agency’s responsibility. From June 2025, penalties have increased, guidance has tightened, and the risks for clients have grown.

The Stakes for Your Business

New Rules & Higher Penalties:

• Civil fines up to £60,000 per illegal worker (previously £20,000).
• Expired Biometric Residence Permits are no longer valid proof, even if digital records show ongoing permission.
• Mandatory repeat checks for workers with time-limited status.
• Stricter rules for Digital Verification Services (DVS).

Why Clients Must Pay Attention

Even when workers are supplied by an agency, liability can extend to you if:

• You have direct control over the worker.
• The agency’s checks are inadequate and you didn’t perform your own due diligence.
• Your contracts require you to guarantee compliant labour.

Risks of Non-Compliance

Risk	Impact
Financial	£60,000 fine per worker, legal fees, and potential loss of contracts.
Operational	Workers removed mid-project, leading to delays and costly re-hiring.
Reputation	Negative publicity, loss of trust with partners, and exclusion from preferred supplier lists.
Legal	Contract breaches, and in severe cases, criminal prosecution.

How to Protect Your Business

✅ Demand documented RTW checks from all labour suppliers.

✅ Include compliance clauses in all recruitment contracts.

✅ Audit agency records regularly—don’t rely solely on verbal assurances.

✅ Spot-check visa expiry dates for long-term or returning workers.

Bottom Line

In construction, delays cost money and reputations are hard to rebuild. By taking an active role in Right to Work compliance, you protect your project timelines, safeguard your brand, and avoid costly legal consequences. Compliance isn’t optional – it’s business-critical