UK Questions about Sub Contracting

[Geo9073]

Hi all, just a quick story about what I’ve been doing. I left my role as JIB approved electrician in 2022. I have 8 years experience. I left to help my family with care responsibilities, now I need to go back as an electrician. I’ve always been interested in trying to do sub contracting so think I’m gonna go try that and I have some questions about it.



How easy is it to find to work? 2 years ago I would've had no problem asking people around but I’ve lost touch with a lot of sparks and feel like my 2 year break will hinder my experience and people taking me on.



How do I go about setting up to CIS scheme? I have a UTR number. Do I need to set up as sole trader too?



What is it like to working for agencies? I’ve had a few approaches, but I would rather try go directly to companies. Will it be worth to go with agencies first to get me back on the ladder?



Thank you

G

 

[MDJ]

How easy is it to find to work?

Very easy if you find a decent agency, I used to fire 3 a day at one point but when the agency sent a decent sparky we did everything to keep them then poach them for future work. Basically if your up to scratch try an agency, you will get sent everywhere but eventually will find a good employer, that is one way of going self employed via the CIS scheme. with 8 years experience you should be fine, hopefully you did a proper apprenticeship and know what you are doing, by the sound of it you have, my opinion is you will find work very easily, good luck

 

[Dustydazzler]

To add, I would get a basic public liability insurance policy just to cover your backside when subbing.

8 years on-site experience , you will get snapped up in no time...

 

[KungFuTurkeyLeg]

CIS registration is pretty simple. Give the CIS helpline a call and request to be activated as a cis subcontractor. Not contractor though, there is a difference. You can do it online now too I believe.