What I Actually Claim Back as a Construction Worker (UK Guide)

Right, I’ll keep this simple this is what I actually expense as someone working in construction. If you’re self-employed or CIS, this is the stuff that can make a real difference to your tax bill.

Tools and Gear 🔧

Anything I need to do the job goes through the books.

• Drills, grinders, saws
• Hand tools like hammers and levels
• Replacing broken tools

If it’s a bigger bit of kit, my accountant usually sorts it as an allowance rather than a straight expense—but it still counts.

PPE and Work Gear 👷

If it keeps me safe, I claim it.

• Steel toe boots
• Hi-vis
• Gloves, goggles, hard hats

You can’t claim normal clothes though even if they get wrecked on site.

Fuel and Travel 🚐

This is a big one.

If I’m travelling to different sites, I claim:

• Fuel
• Repairs and servicing
• Insurance (business use part)
• Parking and tolls

You can do mileage instead, but I just stick with what works best for me.

Staying Away for Work 🏨If I’m working away from home:

• Hotel stays
• Food while I’m there

As long as it’s for work, it goes through.

Tickets, Cards, and Training 📚

Anything that keeps me working legally or safely:

• CSCS card
• Health & Safety courses
• Refresher training

You can’t claim if you’re learning something totally new, but anything for your current trade is fine.

Insurance 🛡️

All of it goes in:

• Public liability
• Tool insurance
• Any cover I need for jobs

Phone Use 📱

I use my phone for everything calls, WhatsApp, emails, quotes so I claim a chunk of my bill.

Just don’t take the mick only claim the work-related part.

Paperwork and Admin 🧾

People forget this bit, but it adds up:

• Accountant fees
• Invoices and printing
• Any software I use

If you do admin at home, you can even claim a bit of your bills.

Paying Other Lads/Lasses 🤝

If I bring someone in to help on a job, that cost goes through as well.

Just make sure you’re doing it properly under CIS.

Getting More Work 📢

Anything I spend to bring in jobs:

• Website
• Ads
• Business cards

If it helps me win work, it counts.

Final Word If it’s for the job, I claim it. Simple as that.

Biggest mistake I see is lads not keeping receipts or just not bothering—then they end up paying more tax than they should.

Keep it organised, keep it honest, and you’ll be sound.

For the conditions behind each claim, read our complete allowable expenses list. Our receipt keeping guide explains how to retain supporting evidence, and the UK tax guide for sole traders covers the wider picture.