ISO 19650 certification is the internationally recognised standard for Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Information Management. This accreditation demonstrates a structured, secure and consistent approach to managing digital information across design and construction, delivering clear benefits for clients, end users and the long-term operation of buildings.

As the construction industry continues its shift toward digital maturity, effective information management has become a defining marker of quality and competence. ISO 19650 has emerged as the recognised international framework for managing information throughout the lifecycle of a built asset, setting clear expectations for how data is created, shared, and maintained.

While adoption is accelerating, achieving true compliance requires more than surface-level change – it demands a fundamental commitment to structured processes, trained people, and consistent ways of working. For clients, this shift matters more than ever. The way information is managed directly affects project certainty, risk, long-term asset value, and regulatory compliance.

Here, leading industry expert Dave Peacock, explores why Building Information Modelling (BIM) ISO 19650 accreditation is increasingly significant, what it takes for contractors to achieve it, and – most importantly – how clients benefit both during delivery and long after project completion.

“While it’s becoming the industry standard, not all main contractors have adopted ISO 19650 processes yet. Those who have, like Lindum, are positioning themselves at the forefront of modern construction practices.

The certification process itself is rigorous – typically spanning up to one year and involving comprehensive assessment of current processes versus ISO 19650 requirements, team upskilling and training, development and iteration of compliant templates and procedures.

The process involves close collaboration with certification bodies like the Building Research Establishment (BRE) and two stages of formal audit.

This level of commitment demonstrates a contractor’s dedication to excellence in information management.

Clients and frameworks which recognise its value are now mandating ISO 19650 accreditation as a requirement. By choosing an accredited contractor, you’re working with a partner who can access the most demanding projects and frameworks, which is a clear indicator of capability and reliability.

Even if you don’t specifically require ISO 19650, an accredited contractor shows an extra level of commitment and organisational maturity compared to non-accredited competitors. It’s a tangible differentiator that speaks to their professionalism.

ISO 19650 certified contractors work to consistent, industry-standard processes and procedures. This means predictable project workflows, reduced risk of information management failures, better adaptability to the latest BIM and information management practices and a suite of compliant templates ready to use when clients don’t have specific requirements.

Whether you knew you wanted an ISO 19650 accredited contractor or not, you benefit from:

• consistent project information, providing a solid foundation that ensures all stakeholders work from the same reliable data
• easily accessible, structured data that’s simple to navigate and utilise
• enhanced asset information and detailed facilities management data that supports long-term building operations.

Benefits that extend beyond project completion

The structured information management approach means building managers can run buildings more efficiently because they have access to comprehensive operations and maintenance information, which enables them to make informed decisions about building management.

For anyone considering future development of an existing building, you’re already 80% there.

This is because information from ISO 19650 compliant projects serves as the perfect starting point for extensions and additions, demolition planning, decommissioning and major refurbishments.

Building Safety Act compliance

For projects subject to the Building Safety Act, ISO 19650 forms the foundation of the Golden Thread of Information, ensuring consistent data flow throughout the project lifecycle, a central repository of information (one single source of truth), easy access for government bodies, housing associations and regulatory authorities, and seamless information transfer into future projects

Applicable across all sectors

The beauty of information management is its universal applicability. While public sector clients have led the way in requiring ISO 19650, the principles benefit projects across education, health, defence, commercial development, residential and infrastructure sectors.

But it’s important to note that information management isn’t sector-specific – it’s a fundamental approach to delivering better construction projects.

In conclusion

Choosing an ISO 19650 accredited main contractor gives you a trusted, capable partner with proven processes and industry-recognised standards, reassurance and credibility backed by rigorous third-party certification, added value whether you specifically required the accreditation or not, long-term benefits that extend well beyond project handover and future-proofed information that supports the entire building lifecycle.

For clients, the choice is clear: partnering with an ISO 19650 accredited main contractor isn’t just about ticking a box.

It’s about ensuring your project is built on a foundation of excellence, consistency, and future-ready information management.”

Dave Peacock is Group Director at IIMBE UK, Vice Chair of NIMA (formerly the UK BIM Alliance) and a contributor to the IMI Framework (formerly UK BIM Framework) ISO19650 Guidance Review Committee.

He has been in roles within the construction sector for three decades and specialised in BIM and Information Management for the last 20 years within organisations, industry groups and on key projects including the International Broadcast Centre for the 2012 London Olympics.