Beware of Hidden Course Costs
20 October 2025
Booking an SMSTS or SSSTS course is an investment in safety, compliance, and your career. But while most reputable training providers offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing, there are unfortunately some unscrupulous providers — and even brokers — who add hidden costs that can make what looked like a bargain turn into an expensive mistake.
At RISK, we believe in clear, upfront pricing. No hidden extras, no nasty surprises. If you see a cheaper price elsewhere, here are the questions you should ask before booking to ensure you’re comparing like-for-like.
Where Unscrupulous Providers May Add Hidden Costs
1. Course Materials
Every delegate on an SMSTS or SSSTS course needs the official CITB handbook. Some providers charge extra for this essential item, despite it being mandatory. At RISK, course materials are always included in the advertised price.
2. Examination and Certification Fees
Your exam and CITB certificate should be included in your booking. However, some providers separate these out and charge them as extras. Always check that the advertised price is all-inclusive.
3. Re-sit Fees
Nobody wants to think about failing an exam — but it can happen. Many providers charge additional fees if you need to re-sit. Reputable providers (like RISK) include at least one free re-sit, ensuring you’re supported, not penalised, if you need another attempt.
4. Hidden Broker Fees
Be wary of booking through broker websites. These are not training providers; they simply pass your details to a provider and take a cut. That “too good to be true” price often excludes fees and add-ons, which you’ll only discover on the day of training. Booking directly with a CITB Approved Training Organisation (ATO) like RISK avoids these commissions and ensures clarity.
5. Suspiciously Low Prices
If a course is advertised at a price much lower than average, ask yourself why. Low prices can mean:
- Unqualified or inexperienced tutors.
- Outdated course materials.
- Lack of post-course support.
- Worst case — an invalid or unrecognised qualification.
Cut-price training often costs you more in the long run.
6. Technical Support (for Online Courses)
For online SMSTS and SSSTS training, you should have reliable technical support if you struggle to log in, access course materials, or use the virtual classroom. Some providers leave you to sort this out yourself, potentially delaying your training and costing you money. At RISK, our dedicated support team is on hand to help.
7. Rescheduling or Cancellation Fees
Life happens — sometimes you need to move or cancel a booking. Some providers charge excessive admin fees for this. At RISK, we keep terms transparent and fair, so you’re never stung by hidden costs.
Why Transparent Pricing Matters
When you’re booking an SMSTS or SSSTS course, it’s not just about passing the test — it’s about gaining the knowledge to keep people safe on site. Hidden costs don’t just hit your wallet — they raise questions about the provider’s integrity and training quality.
By choosing RISK, you know exactly what you’re paying for:
✅ All course materials included
✅ Examination & certification fees included
✅ At least one re-sit included
✅ Direct booking with a CITB ATO
✅ No hidden broker fees
✅ Robust technical support for online courses
✅ Transparent terms for cancellations or reschedules
Final Word: Ask Before You Book
If you see a cheaper SMSTS or SSSTS course price, don’t assume it’s a better deal. Ask:
- Does the price include the handbook and course materials?
- Are exam and certification fees included?
- What happens if I need to re-sit the exam?
- Am I booking directly with a CITB ATO, or through a broker?
- What support is available if I have technical issues?
- What are the rescheduling and cancellation policies?
At RISK, we’ll always give you a straight answer — because our goal isn’t just to get you through the course, it’s to ensure you leave competent, confident, and fully qualified.
