The Construction CITB Levy explained: what employers need to know 

Most building and construction employers already know about the CITB Construction Levy. What matters is making it work for you. 

Knowing what support is available through CITB grants and how to use it to offset training costs and support apprenticeships is the key to turning Levy contributions into real opportunities. 

At NHBC, we help employers leverage their grants through leading training and apprenticeship pathways to maximise the return on their investment. 

What is the Construction Levy?  

The Construction Levy is a payment that certain construction employers make to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The money collected goes into a central fund used to pay for training, apprenticeships and skills development across the construction industry. 

Every business that pays in helps to create opportunities for training, while those same businesses can also draw on the fund to support their team development. 

CITB pays grants for the completion of courses focused on skills that are core to the construction industry's needs. These could be the technical or trade skills you need right now or something you’ll need in the future.  

• Who pays? Employers in construction whose wage bill (including subcontractors) is above a set threshold. Find the latest CITB Levy rates. 
• Why does it exist? To make sure the industry has the money to invest in training and upskilling, so there are enough qualified people to meet demand. 
• What’s in it for employers? If you pay the Levy, you can claim CITB grants and funding to cover the costs of training and apprenticeships for your team. 

NHBC’s role in training and development 

We’re committed to helping employers get the most out of their Levy contributions. We know that construction businesses are facing the skills gap. 

That’s why our training and apprenticeship programmes are built around the real needs of the house-building industry and the wider construction sector. 

How we can support you 

Apprenticeships: Tailored programmes that combine study with hands-on experience, developing the next generation of skilled home builders. 

Training courses: Covering technical and sales courses for professionals and students in the construction sector. 

Expert guidance: Our team can help you navigate the grants, understand what funding is available and choose the right training options for your business. 

Next steps for employers 

If you’re unsure where to start with the Construction Levy, here are three practical steps you can take today: 

1. Check if you need to pay: Use CITB’s tools and guidance to see whether your business meets the thresholds. 
2. Explore funding opportunities: Review what grants and support are available, from apprenticeship funding to training. 
3. Talk to NHBC: We’ll help you plan training and apprenticeship pathways that maximise grants and funding while meeting your business needs. 

Your Levy contributions can go further than you think. By investing in apprenticeships and training, you’re not only developing the next generation of skilled workers but also making the most of the funding that’s available to you. 

We can support accessing grants for the training we provide only. Please visit CITB to find out more on their Levy, grants and funding.