Tradesperson checklist

Register for CIS as subcontractor

Get the 20% deduction rate instead of 30%.

Register for Self Assessment

Required alongside CIS registration.

Public liability insurance

Minimum £1m. Most commercial clients require it.

Verify trade certifications

Gas Safe, NICEIC, CSCS, or other required competencies.

Open a business bank account

Essential for tracking income and expenses clearly.

Invoice labour and materials separately

CIS deductions only apply to labour — not materials.

Monitor VAT threshold (£90k)

Trades businesses can cross this quickly including materials.

Record capital equipment purchases

Tools and vans qualify for Annual Investment Allowance.