The Competition and Markets Authority has launched an investigation into suspected bid-rigging in relation to a key government fund for improving the condition of school buildings.

The competition watchdogs suspect that several companies providing roofing and construction services – including building contractors and technical advisors – illegally colluded to rig bids to secure contracts funded through the government’s Condition Improvement Fund (CIF).

A series of raids have been undertaken this week to gather evidence.

The CMA said it “has particular concerns in relation to roofing contracts.”

Around £450m of CIF money is awarded annually by the Department for Education to schools with buildings in poor condition to ensure they are safe and remain in good working order.

Juliette Enser, Executive Director of Competition Enforcement, at the CMA said: “This fund is incredibly important and ensures that essential building improvements can be made to schools throughout England, meaning students are learning in safe and suitable environments.

“While no assumptions should be made that competition law has been broken at this early stage, we will be investigating this issue thoroughly. We will now be making enquiries and assessing the evidence to see whether or not bid rigging has taken place – and what further action may be needed.”