Self-employed bricklayer for builders

Small and medium building firms, groundworkers and site managers who need extra skilled labour.

A day rate, or a price per 1,000 bricks laid. Income depends on how many days you work and how fast and neat you are.

• Trade qualification or solid on-site experience
• Accurate, tidy brickwork
• Reading plans and setting out
• Reliable and good with other trades

• Construction Industry Scheme (CIS): check how to register as a subcontractor with HMRC and how deductions work
• Employment status: check you are genuinely self-employed and not treated as an employee
• Public liability insurance, and check what site contractors require of you
• Physically demanding work that is weather-dependent, so income can dip in bad weather
• Keep records of income and expenses for your Self Assessment

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £2,500, depending on the tools you already own and the insurance you need. These are estimates, so check what site contractors require of you before buying anything.

Check how to register as a subcontractor under the Construction Industry Scheme with HMRC and how deductions work. Also check your employment status is genuinely self-employed, what public liability cover contractors require, and keep records for Self Assessment.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,500 to £6,000, depending on day rates, work available and weather. The work is physically demanding and weather-dependent, so income can dip. Expect at least about 30 hours a week.