The trade body is warning fitted interiors retailers and contractors to review subcontractor checks following stricter Right to Work regulations introduced this month.
The British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists (BIFIS) has issued guidance to the fitted interiors sector after changes to the UK’s Right to Work (RTW) regulations came into effect earlier this month.
The updated rules, introduced under the Immigration (Employment Checks) Act 2026, require businesses to carry out more rigorous checks on anyone working under their instruction — including subcontractors — marking a shift in responsibility for retailers and main contractors.
From 6 April 2026, companies must verify every individual’s right to work in the UK, regardless of employment status or contractual setup. According to BIFIS, this is particularly relevant for KBB retailers, who frequently rely on subcontracted installers to deliver projects.
The Home Office now expects businesses to either check original documentation or use its online verification service before work begins. Failure to comply could result in significant fines or, in more serious cases, criminal prosecution.
BIFIS says the changes remove any reliance on third-party assurances, placing full accountability on the business commissioning the work. Retailers are being advised to keep detailed records and ensure robust processes are in place.
Damian Walters said: “We all have a responsibility to ensure those we work with, including sub-contracted installers, have a legitimate right to work in the UK and these new changes require businesses to operate differently from this month.
“The Home Office is clear about the burden of responsibility for those working with sub-contractors and the consequences for not undertaking the new checks can not only be damaging to brand but can also lead to criminal prosecution”.
He added: “The reduction of risk has always been a priority for BIFIS and our retail partners benefit from the rigorous compliance checks we undertake.
“Partners can be assured that these checks are not only completed on all BIFIS Registered businesses, but that futureproofing for fast-changing legislation is managed by us too”.
BIFIS is recommending that retailers — particularly those not currently working with the organisation — review their subcontractor arrangements as a priority to ensure they meet the new legal requirements.
