How to Start a Carpentry & Joinery Business in the UK (2026)
Carpentry and joinery have no licence to start, and demand is strong across first-fix, second-fix and bespoke joinery. The essentials are proving your skill, getting on sites, handling CIS, and managing wood dust safely. This guide covers every step in order.
Step 1 — Prove your trade and get site-ready
No legal qualification is required, but an NVQ Level 2/3 in carpentry/joinery and a CSCS card get you on sites and unlock insurance. Wood dust is a recognised hazard — extraction and masks are required under COSHH.
Step 2 — Choose your structure and register with HMRC
Sole trader or limited company, registered within 3 months of trading.
Step 3 — Register for CIS
Carpentry is construction, so CIS applies. As a subcontractor, registering drops your deduction from 30% to 20%; pay subbies and you're a contractor filing monthly.
Step 4 — Get insured & set up
Public liability (essential), employers' liability (legal once you hire), tools/van cover, a business bank account, waste carrier registration if you remove waste, and VAT over £90,000 (mind the reverse charge). If you run a workshop, check planning/use and machinery safety (PUWER).
Requirements at a glance
| Requirement | Needed? |
|---|---|
| Carpenter's licence | ❌ No licence exists |
| NVQ Level 2/3 + CSCS card | ✅ Expected for site work & insurance |
| HMRC registration | ✅ Sole trader or company |
| CIS registration | ✅ If you subcontract or hire |
| Public liability insurance | ⚠️ Effectively essential |
| Employers' liability insurance | ✅ Legal if you employ anyone |
| Waste carrier registration | ⚪ If you carry waste |
| VAT registration | ✅ Once turnover > £90,000 |
Start your carpentry business the easy way
Spark builds your exact setup checklist — CIS, insurance, waste and tax — in the right order, with deadlines tracked. Free.
Build my free checklist →FAQ
Do I need a licence to be a carpenter or joiner? No — but CIS applies, and a CSCS card plus NVQ are expected for site work and insurance. When do I register for VAT? Once turnover passes £90,000 in any 12-month period.
Last reviewed 2026. Confirm current rules on GOV.UK and HSE before acting.