Help & guidance for tradespeople

  • Graphic showing freelancer working on his laptop and the National Freelancers Day logo

    What insurance do tradespeople need?

    Whether you're a carpenter, plumber, electrician or different kind of tradesperson, understanding which types of insurance are needed to protect your business can be difficult.

  • Two trades professionals on a construction site raising their hands together in celebration of their success.

    A handy list of trades associations

    Finding the trades associations for your industry sector isn’t always easy. We’ve collated a list of the most common trades associations in the UK for you to bookmark in your browser.

  • A painter and decorator working in a client's home.

    How to check if a tradesman is insured

    When you hire a tradesman to carry out work on your home or business premises, it always comes with risks. However, from checking a contractor’s previous reviews online to asking about their qualifications before giving them the job, there are ways to protect yourself.

  • A tiler installing ceramic floor tiles.

    How to become a tiler

    Tilers are versatile tradespeople. With a foot in both the construction and interior design industries, these skilled professionals work on a range of projects. This includes everything from domestic and commercial installations to specialist renovations and restorations.

  • A locksmith and his apprentice changing the lock on a door.

    How to start a locksmith business

    Locksmithing is a thriving trade in the UK. Thanks to a growing population, an increase in new-build properties, and rising post-pandemic crime rates, now is a great time to join the industry.

  • A set of tools on a wooden table.

    Must have handyman tools

    A handyman is only as good as his or her tools. After all, without them, these tradespeople are unable to complete even the most basic of jobs.

  • A self-employed handyman using a circular saw.

    How to start a handyman business in the UK

    Handyman services are in high demand in the UK right now. According to Trade and Construction software company, Powered Now, nearly a quarter (23%) of handymen in the UK are working over 10 hours a day just to service the backlog of work they have*.

  • Tiler applying tiles to a breeze block wall.

    How to start your own tiling business

    If you’re a skilled tiler, you might be considering setting up your own business. Being your own boss certainly has many advantages, including the extra freedom it gives you and the potential to determine your own earnings.

  • A self-employed plasterer and his apprentice plastering a ceiling.

    How to set up a plastering business

    Plastered walls and ceilings are commonplace in the UK. From smooth surfaces ready to decorate in new builds to ornamental fibrous plastering in older homes, this practice is used in nearly all UK interiors.

  • A tradesman using a carpet tucking tool to fit a carpet under a skirting board.

    How to become a carpet fitter

    Carpet fitting is a physically demanding job that requires a sharp eye for detail. However, a career in this field can also be pretty lucrative.

  • A male joiner in his workshop measuring wood.

    What is the difference between a joiner and a carpenter?

    The difference between joiners and carpenters is something that many people are unfamiliar with. The average person might not even realise there is a difference at all - after all, both professions work with wood. While there is a degree of overlap between the two career options, the terms aren’t interchangeable.

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