How to Start a Painting & Decorating Business in the UK (2026)
Painting and decorating is one of the most accessible trades — no licence, low startup cost, steady demand. The essentials are proving your skill, handling CIS, the right insurance, and a couple of safety points (old lead paint, working at height). This guide covers every step in order.
Step 1 — Prove your trade and get site-ready
No qualification is legally required, but an NVQ Level 2 in painting & decorating and a CSCS card get you on sites and unlock insurance. Two safety points: old lead paint (pre-1960s buildings) needs care, and working at height (ladders, scaffold towers) falls under the Work at Height Regulations 2007. Asbestos awareness helps on older buildings.
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
Decorating 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 — you're working in clients' homes and properties), employers' liability (legal once you hire), tools/van cover, a business bank account, and VAT over £90,000 (mind the reverse charge).
Requirements at a glance
| Requirement | Needed? |
|---|---|
| Decorator's licence | ❌ No licence exists |
| NVQ Level 2 + 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 |
| VAT registration | ✅ Once turnover > £90,000 |
Start your decorating business the easy way
Spark builds your exact setup checklist — CIS, insurance and tax — in the right order, with deadlines tracked. Free.
Build my free checklist →FAQ
Do I need a licence to be a painter and decorator? No — but CIS applies, and a CSCS card is expected for site work. 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.