Registering a home-based business

[scoobysoo]

Hello. My mind has gone completely blank on this one! If you set up a business that you run from your own home, who do you need to register with? I know it's some sort of governmental department, but I just cannot think! I am a complementary therapist, and intend to set up a therapy room at home, but I know I have to register with someone but cannot remember who!! Please help!

[Ethel]

You need to inform the Inland Revenue and register as self-employed. Information and forms here:

http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/startingup/index.htm

Depending on the sort of business, you may also have to inform your council and your household insurance.

Check the Registered Title to your property, or lease if rented - you may prohibited from carrying out a business from home.

[scoobysoo]

Thanks. I've registered as self-employed, butI'm not sure how to register my premises

[buildersmate]

Assuming you are going self-employed (and not Ltd Co) you don't have to register your premises as such.
As Ethel says, you just have to make sure you can run a business from there.
If you are using a separate building within the curtilage of your property to run the business from, you would probably have to register that building for business rates, but if its just a single room in your house you wouldn't. There is some stuff here for you to look at.
http://www.businesslink.gov.uk/bdotg/action/la yer?r.l1=1073858805&topicId=1073960216&r.l2=10 73859128&r.s=tl
Also make sure you check out the potential for any CGT implications when you eventually sell your house if part of it has been used for business purposes.