What expenses can roofers claim on UK Self Assessment?

UK sole trader roofers can claim allowable costs incurred wholly and exclusively for their trade, including Tiles, slates, batten, breathable felt, and lead flashing (Box 17), Scaffolding hire, hoist rental, and waste removal skips (Box 17), Roofing safety harnesses, fall arresters, and roof ladders (Box 18), along with qualifying mileage at 55p per mile.

How long do roofers 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 (Materials) & Box 20 (Vehicle travel)

Receipts for Roofers & Cladders

Tiles, slates, felt, lead, scaffolding, and harness receipts saved from the weather. Keep verifiable records your accountant can file directly into your Self Assessment return.

HMRC Allowable vs Disallowable Checklist for roofers

✓ Allowable Expenses to Keep	✕ Disallowable Mistakes
Tiles, slates, batten, breathable felt, and lead flashing (Box 17) Scaffolding hire, hoist rental, and waste removal skips (Box 17) Roofing safety harnesses, fall arresters, and roof ladders (Box 18) Gas torches, nail guns, and hand tools (Box 18) Van travel and site fuel (Box 20)	Non-safety everyday jackets Parking fines on yellow lines Unrelated personal trips

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 roofers 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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