Freelance in Building?

Hi A. F.

There is not a lot of advertised places for Freelance Building Planners in the UK but you can still give it a go.

First you must be fluent in Asta Powerproject because this is the software of choice in this sector.

Why not spreak to your current employer and see if you can start off with them doing your current job - but you must have more than one client for any tax benefits to operate.

Then you need contacts in the industry to get your name and CV out to the contractors - best to go for the mid range that do not have a planning department.

You can also try to break into the sub-contractors market.

Also spread your CV around the QS and Claims Consultants - they sometimes need a basic planner.

You can set up your LTD status now so that you can start trading as soon as you get your 1st commission.

Be prepared to work on a fixed price basis - and spend some time chasing your money.

You can expect somewhere between £25 - £35 per hour to start with and the tax benefits are wothwhile if you pay yourself the minimum wage up to the 20% cut off and NI on that.

Then after expenses and accountants fees you pay yourself a year end dividend at 22% and no NI.

If you are going to register for VAT opt for a set rate - online - system.

Good luck - don’t give up the day job just yet.

Best regards

Mike Testro