Free guides made for real businesses like yours.
Between CIS, VAT, and HMRC deadlines, UK builders and contractors are under pressure to stay compliant while running demanding projects. If tax admin feels overwhelming, you’re not alone — but you don’t have to navigate it alone either.
If you’re a contractor, you’re responsible for deducting tax at source from subcontractors and reporting it to HMRC. If you’re a subcontractor, your payments may already have tax deducted. Know your role—and make sure you’re registered properly with HMRC to avoid issues.
VAT in construction isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different projects may be standard-rated (20%), reduced (5%) or zero-rated (0%) depending on factors like new builds, conversions, or listed properties. If you’re VAT-registered, make sure you’re charging (or not charging) correctly and reclaiming eligible costs.
Since March 2021, many B2B construction services fall under the domestic reverse charge VAT rule. This means you no longer charge VAT to other VAT-registered contractors — they account for it instead. Get this wrong, and your cash flow or compliance could take a hit.
HMRC expects full transparency. Keep detailed records of all subcontractor payments, tax deductions, verification checks, and CIS returns. Using accounting software tailored to construction helps you avoid penalties and missed deadlines.
Contractors must file monthly CIS returns and pay deductions to HMRC by the 19th of each month. Subcontractors should check their CIS deductions are reported properly so they can claim back or offset taxes during Self Assessment.
UK tax rules for builders don’t have to be a minefield. With the right systems, clear advice, and up-to-date knowledge, you can keep projects compliant and profitable—without losing sleep (or money) over HMRC.
💡 Feeling overwhelmed by tax rules in construction? Our Tax Services simplify CIS compliance, HMRC reporting, and VAT for builders and property developers — so you can focus on the build, not the bureaucracy.
CIS is an HMRC scheme where contractors deduct tax from subcontractors' payments and report it monthly. Subcontractors must ensure they’re verified with HMRC and track deductions for Self Assessment or refunds.
VAT rates vary: 20% for standard-rated work, 5% for certain refurbishments, and 0% for new builds. Charging the wrong rate can result in penalties or lost claims—so it’s vital to apply VAT correctly from the start.
For B2B construction services, the customer—not the supplier—accounts for VAT. If you’re working with another VAT-registered contractor, you likely won’t charge VAT on your invoice. This affects cash flow, so it’s essential to understand when it applies.
Contractors must submit monthly CIS returns and pay deductions to HMRC by the 19th of each month. Missing these can lead to fines and interest charges, so calendar reminders and accounting support are essential.
Book your free consultation and let’s go through your CIS, VAT, and reverse charge responsibilities together. No jargon. Just clarity, confidence, and expert construction accounting support.