I am starting my own business and would like to work from home. Is it OK to do this and is there anything I should know?
Answer
For those businesses that are suited to operating from a person’s home there are definite advantages. Working from home can be a great way of keeping overheads low for you when you first start trading.
It can provide you with flexibility for whatever work, life and family commitments you may have and in addition can lower your financial risk. However there are a number of issues that you will need to explore before using your home as a base for your business;
1) Check your mortgage contract as some lenders may not allow you to run a business from your property
2) If you have a rented property check your lease as there may be some restrictions
3) If there is going to be “material change of use” to your house, in other words change of its appearance, fumes or smells, more noise, more visitors or installation of specialist machinery, then you must talk to your local authority as planning permission may be required. It is always best to consult your local authority on what you would like to do as a planning officer will guide you on any necessary measure you might need to take.
To find out if working from home is right for your business it is always advisable to consult your business advisor to ensure that you have considered all areas ie advertising, insurance, professionalism, security, neighbours etc.
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