Getting Started as a Self-Employed Joiner

Going self-employed as a joiner is a big step. Here is a practical guide to getting set up and finding your first customers in the North East.

Register as self-employed

You need to register with HMRC as self-employed within three months of starting. You can do this online. You will need to file a Self Assessment tax return each year and pay your own income tax and National Insurance.

Get insured

At minimum, you need public liability insurance (£1 million to £5 million cover). If you employ anyone, you also need employer's liability insurance. Tool insurance is worth having too, especially if you carry expensive tools in your van. Budget around £300 to £500 per year for a basic package.

Set up your finances

Open a separate business bank account. Keep your personal and business money separate from day one. It makes accounting much easier. Use a simple accounting app or spreadsheet to track income and expenses. Put aside 25-30% of everything you earn for tax.

Buy the right tools

You probably already have most of what you need, but make sure your tools are up to professional standard. Invest in quality over quantity. A good table saw, mitre saw, router, and a full set of hand tools will cover most domestic joinery work.

Price your work

Joinery day rates in the North East range from £180 to £280 depending on experience and the type of work. Kitchen fitting, bespoke furniture, and staircase work command higher rates than basic door hanging and skirting board replacement. See our pricing guide for more detail.

Find your first customers

Start by telling everyone you know that you are available. Word of mouth is how most joiners get their first jobs. List your business on North East Trades for free to get found by homeowners searching for joiners in your area. Set up a Google Business Profile and start collecting reviews from day one.

Build a portfolio

Photograph every job. Even simple work like fitting new doors or building a wardobe. These photos are your portfolio and will win you future work. Upload them to your North East Trades profile and social media.

Specialise or generalise?

Starting out, take on a range of work to build experience and income. As you get busier, you can specialise in higher-value work like kitchens, staircases, or bespoke furniture if that is where your skills and interests lie. Specialists can charge more but need a bigger reputation to stay busy.