The Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) is a Department for Education capital programme that provides funding for school building condition projects. It is one of the main routes by which schools in England secure funding for essential repair work.

Who Can Apply

CIF applications are typically submitted by eligible bodies including academies, sixth-form colleges and voluntary-aided schools. Local-authority-maintained schools are generally not direct applicants but may be covered through their local authority.

Why Schools Receive Funding

Schools receive CIF funding to address building condition needs — keeping buildings safe, warm and dry. Funding is allocated based on assessed condition need, project viability and value for money.

Types of Repair Work

• Roofing — replacement and repair of flat and pitched roofs.
• Building safety — structural and fire-safety work.
• Building-envelope work — cladding, glazing and weatherproofing.
• Heating and electrical systems.

The Public-Money Context

CIF projects are funded by public money. Competition among contractors for these projects is important because it affects the price and quality of work delivered to schools — and ultimately the value returned to the taxpayer.

The CMA Investigation Connection

The CMA investigation concerns suspected bid-rigging involving roofing and other construction services, including projects associated with schools eligible to seek CIF funding. This does not imply that the CIF programme itself is under suspicion.