What expenses can plasterers claim on UK Self Assessment?

UK sole trader plasterers can claim allowable costs incurred wholly and exclusively for their trade, including Multi-finish plaster, bonding, plasterboard, and beads (Box 17), Finishing trowels, spatulas, mixing paddles, and hawks (Box 18), Water bucket consumables, drywall screws, and scrim tape (Box 17), along with qualifying mileage at 55p per mile.

How long do plasterers need to keep receipts for HMRC?

HMRC requires sole traders to keep records and receipts for at least 5 years after the 31 January submission deadline for that tax year. Receipts Dock preserves photos for 6 years.

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Trade Expense ChecklistUK Tax Year 2026/27Box 17 (Goods bought) & Box 18 (Tools)

Receipts for Plasterers & Dryliners

Plasterboard, multi-finish, beads, trowels, and van fuel tracked effortlessly. Keep verifiable records your accountant can file directly into your Self Assessment return.

HMRC Allowable vs Disallowable Checklist for plasterers

✓ Allowable Expenses to Keep	✕ Disallowable Mistakes
Multi-finish plaster, bonding, plasterboard, and beads (Box 17) Finishing trowels, spatulas, mixing paddles, and hawks (Box 18) Water bucket consumables, drywall screws, and scrim tape (Box 17) Travel mileage or van diesel to client properties (Box 20) Site PPE: dust masks, goggles, and safety boots (Box 18)	Ordinary streetwear Commute to standard depot or yard Personal DIY tools

HMRC Rule: Expenses must be incurred wholly and exclusively for business purposes. When buying mixed items (e.g. at a trade merchant or fuel station), Receipts Dock files the receipt and keeps the original photo attached for your bookkeeper.

Tools to Keep Your plasterers Accounts Tidy

🔍 SA103 Box Finder →Search any material or tool to see its exact HMRC box.🚗 55p Mileage Calculator →Calculate your 55p and 25p tax allowance per trip.

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