So you want to run your business from home?

If all your business actually needs is a small office space for one or two people then running your business from home may well be a good option, though if you need more space, or will need to make alterations, or run a business that may for any reason (say, noise or traffic) annoy your neighbours then you probably need to weigh up the costs and options more carefully. Before you go ahead you need to check with the mortgage lender or your landlord, as well as the insurance provider. You also need to check whether you will need to pay business rates and the local planning department if it may be necessary to make some structural changes. If your business will use hazardous chemicals or the operations may have some risk to workers then checking with the HSE (Heath and Safety Executive) will make sure you comply with rules for Health and Safety risk Assessment. This is a very simple process for an office-based business though you will need to know some information about setting up and using computer workstations appropriately. It is also essential that you segregate your business area from the rest of the home. You will need accountancy and legal services to help you with aspects of setting up your home business with important information about costs and allowances for your tax and evidence for claiming such allowances before you go ahead.