Specialist Accountants for Plumbers & Heating Engineers

CIS applies when plumbing work is construction-related (new builds, extensions, renovations). Repair and maintenance work is generally outside CIS unless it's part of a larger construction project. If you're a subcontractor, contractors deduct 20% (registered) or 30% (unverified) from your payments. If you hold gross payment status, no deduction. CIS suffered can be offset against your own PAYE/NIC and corporation tax. We handle verification, CIS returns, and deduction statements. See construction industry services.

For most plumbers, simplified mileage rates (45p per mile for first 10,000 business miles, 25p thereafter) are simpler and often more beneficial. A plumber driving 20,000 business miles annually could claim £7,000. The actual cost method (fuel, insurance, servicing, van finance) may be better if you run an expensive new van with high running costs. We run both calculations and select the best option. See self assessment services.

Plumbers can claim: materials and fittings (copper, plastic, push-fit, solder), tools and equipment, van and fuel costs, insurance (public liability), Gas Safe registration fees, workwear and PPE, mobile phone, advertising, home office, bank charges, and training/CPD costs. Larger items (press tools, drain cameras) may qualify for capital allowances. View sole trader accounting.

For plumbers earning above £50,000 profit, a limited company is often more tax-efficient via salary/dividend mix, offers limited liability protection, and may be required by commercial clients and contracts. Sole trader status is simpler with lower admin costs and suits those with moderate profits. We analyse your specific earnings and advise on the optimal structure. Explore limited company services.

Yes. Vans qualify for 100% Annual Investment Allowance (up to £1 million per year). Specialist plumbing tools — press tools (£1,500+), drain cameras (£2,000+), pipe freezers, threading machines — also qualify for AIA or full expensing. Hand tools and smaller items can be claimed as revenue expenses (replacement basis). We ensure maximum capital allowance claims. View corporation tax services.

If you're VAT-registered and working as a subcontractor for another CIS-registered contractor, the domestic reverse charge may apply — the contractor accounts for the VAT, not you. You issue a reverse charge invoice stating the VAT is to be accounted for by the customer. End-user clients (homeowners) are excluded from reverse charge. We ensure correct invoice wording and VAT treatment. Explore VAT services.