Roofing Director Fined for Concealing Evidence in Bid Rigging Investigation

Investigation Overview

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has been actively investigating potential bid-rigging practices related to the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF), which is allocated annually by the Department for Education (DfE) to improve school facilities in poor condition. This investigation has included several companies involved in roofing and construction services, with unannounced inspections conducted at various business premises.

M&J Group's Fines

Recently, M&J Group (Construction & Roofing) Ltd was fined a total of £50,000 for its role in concealing evidence during the CMA's inspection. The investigation, which began in December 2024, initially focused on contracts funded by the CIF for school repairs. However, in January 2026, the scope of the investigation expanded to include contracts across both public and private sectors, implicating twelve construction businesses, including M&J Group.

The fines were distributed as follows:

• M&J Group: £25,000
• Barry Pirrie, Estimating Director: £20,000
• Tracey Woods, Office Manager: £5,000

Wider Implications of the Investigation

The CMA's ongoing efforts to combat bid rigging are underscored by the significant fines imposed last year, which totalled nearly £60 million on various firms involved in similar anti-competitive behaviours. As part of its strategy to deter such practices, the CMA has announced a new debarment regime set to take effect in February 2025. This regime will prevent businesses found guilty of breaching competition law from bidding on public contracts, thereby aiming to uphold fair competition within the construction sector.

Health and Safety Concerns

In a related context, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has also been active in the construction sector, recently fining B&O Developers Ltd and its director, Sanjay Swaminaryan, for unsafe roof work in central London. The HSE's investigation stemmed from public concerns regarding unsafe practices at the Kings Cross Express Inn, where inspections revealed hazardous conditions. The project, which ran from October 2020 until March 2024, led to B&O Developers being fined £4,020 along with a surcharge on 22 July 2026.

Conclusion

The actions taken by the CMA and HSE highlight the critical need for compliance with both competition and safety regulations in the construction industry. As investigations continue and new regulations are implemented, companies must remain vigilant to avoid severe penalties and ensure the safety of their operations.