{"id":966,"date":"2021-05-21T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-05-21T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/articles\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/"},"modified":"2025-05-22T13:18:45","modified_gmt":"2025-05-22T13:18:45","slug":"how-to-become-a-groundworker","status":"publish","type":"knowledge","link":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","title":{"rendered":"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A groundworker is a construction professional who prepares the ground before (and after) building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This usually involves clearing the site, digging trenches for foundations, laying drainage pipes, and returning at the end to lay footpaths and driveways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-start-a-business\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1444\" ><strong>How to start a business<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/sme-insurance\/how-to-claim-for-tool-theft\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"880\" ><strong>How to claim for tool theft<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-tax\/what-is-business-turnover\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1577\" ><strong>What is business turnover?<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/faq\/do-i-need-business-insurance\/\"><strong>Do I need business insurance?<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Groundworkers can be self-employed \u2013 many people in the construction industry work as subcontractors, which means they\u2019re hired to do part of a job that\u2019s been agreed in a separate contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re thinking about being a groundworker, read on for more about the job and how to set up your own business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whatdoesagroundworkerdo\">What does a groundworker do?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As mentioned, a groundworker might take on a number of tasks on site, both before and after construction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These include <strong>clearing the site<\/strong>, <strong>digging trenches for foundations<\/strong>, <strong>removing sewage and pipework systems<\/strong>, and <strong>getting the ground ready for construction<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"groundworkerjobdescription\">Groundworker job description<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In terms of day-to-day duties, a groundworker might:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">set up a site, solving any logistical problems (putting up huts, barriers, safety signs, etc)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">install drainage and lay drainage pipes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">lay foundations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">redirect waterways and connect pipes with existing pipework<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">come back after the build to lay pavements, kerbs, and driveways (e.g. block paving)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So a groundworker needs these attributes to be successful:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">strong communication skills (to liaise with other workers on site)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">strength and stamina (to keep up with the physical demands of the role)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">reliability, enthusiasm, and adaptability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">basic numeracy ability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">the ability to read and interpret architectural drawings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">the ability to read bar bending schedules (a list of the total steel needed for construction)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">problem solving<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"groundworkerqualificationswhattrainingdoineed\">Groundworker qualifications: what training do I need?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As with many roles in the trades, if you want to be a groundworker but don\u2019t have experience, you could start as an apprentice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a company takes you on as an apprentice, you\u2019ll gain experience on the job while studying an accompanying course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You could also join a company as a trainee, building experience as you go. Groundworkers with some experience already can choose to take an NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Groundworking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This course requires you to be active in the construction industry, so it might be useful if a company has taken you on as a trainee and you want to develop your existing knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are also City &amp; Guilds courses available at local learning centres, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cityandguilds.com\/qualifications-and-apprenticeships\/construction\/construction\/6709-construction-operations-general-construction#&amp;acc=level2\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Construction Operations \u2013 General Construction (6709)<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<div id=\"nba-body-001\">\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll also need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/trades\/what-is-a-cscs-card\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1298\" >Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card<\/a>, which shows your skills have been certified<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">a driving licence, for some jobs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">machine tickets (competency cards that show you can operate certain types of machinery)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Groundworkers should also have references from previous jobs to start new ones, so it\u2019s important that you\u2019re reliable and diligent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"groundworkersalaryhowmuchcanagroundworkerearn\">Groundworker salary: how much can a groundworker earn?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A groundworker salary depends on which career stage you\u2019re at, as well as whether you\u2019re employed or self-employed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.talent.com\/salary?job=groundworker\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">talent.com<\/a>, the average groundworker salary is <strong>\u00a331,200 a year<\/strong>, with entry level positions starting at <strong>\u00a329,250 a year<\/strong> and experienced workers making <strong>\u00a333,150 a year<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is based on 19,663 salaries submitted to its site. Roles are advertised at between \u00a314-\u00a320 per hour, depending on experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As this is an average and only based on salaries submitted to one website, it might be best to do your own research. What do self-employed groundworkers in your area charge? Ask your contacts in construction to work out what self-employed groundworkers earn in your local town or city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that if you\u2019re self-employed, you won\u2019t be on Pay As You Earn (PAYE), so you\u2019ll have tax obligations \u2013 although some roles pay your <a href=\"\/knowledge\/trades\/construction-industry-scheme-guide\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1240\" >Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)<\/a> payments through an <a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-structure\/what-is-an-umbrella-company\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"951\" >umbrella company<\/a> (read more about the CIS below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"howtobecomeagroundworkerandsetupyourownbusiness\">How to become a groundworker and set up your own business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you an experienced groundworker who\u2019s looking to go self-employed? Do you want to build your own groundworking business, or become a subcontractor? Either way, here are our top tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1buildyourgroundworkerbusinessplan\">1. Build your groundworker business plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everybody who\u2019s going self-employed for the first time needs to think about their goals and ambitions. Your business plan helps you put these onto paper and work out what you need to do to get your groundworking business started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn\u2019t have to be too long or formal \u2013 but answering questions about your business before you go self-employed (for example funding, financials, and what tools and equipment you need) should help you avoid any surprises along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find out <a href=\"\/knowledge\/strategy\/how-to-write-a-business-plan\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1199\" >how to write a business plan and download a free business plan template<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2figureouttax\">2. Figure out tax<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Self-employed people deal with their own taxes, rather than pay tax automatically through PAYE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means you should tick these off your checklist:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-structure\/register-as-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1501\" >register as self-employed with HMRC<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/trades\/construction-industry-scheme-guide\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1240\" >understand and register for the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)<\/a> (money is deducted from a self-employed subcontractor\u2019s pay through this scheme, which goes toward the subcontractor\u2019s tax and National Insurance)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-tax\/self-employed-tax-changes\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1514\" >do a Self Assessment tax return each year<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/self-assessment-deadline\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1509\" >get to grips with Self Assessment deadlines<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/self-employed-expenses\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1511\" >understand all the self-employed tax deductible expenses you can claim for<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3keepuptodatewithhealthandsafety\">3. Keep up to date with health and safety<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important to manage your site safely, so be sure to keep up with the latest health and safety regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hse.gov.uk\/construction\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">detailed guidance for construction<\/a>, plus you can read our guide on completing a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/staff\/health-and-safety-risk-assessment-guide\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"884\" >risk assessment<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4gettherightequipmentandtools\">4. Get the right equipment and tools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re experienced, you should know what you need already, but here\u2019s a list of some essentials for groundworkers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">safety boots<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">high visibility vest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">safety hat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">shovels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">lump hammers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">basic hand tools to lay the foundation and for other tasks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"682\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?w=1024\" alt=\"Groundworker using wheelbarrow\" class=\"wp-image-3831\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg 4000w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?resize=800,533 800w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?resize=1024,682 1024w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?resize=1536,1024 1536w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?resize=2048,1365 2048w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/groundworker-using-wheelbarrow.jpg?resize=150,100 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5lookforgroundworkerinsurance\">5. Look for groundworker insurance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tools and equipment for tradespeople are expensive, so a comprehensive business insurance policy can protect you if they get lost, stolen or damaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Simply Business, you can build a policy that suits the specifics of your business. Your <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/groundworkers-insurance\/\">groundworkers insurance<\/a> policy can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/tool-insurance\/\/\">tools insurance<\/a> \u2013 insure your hand tools, power tools and plant equipment against loss, damage or theft<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/public-liability-insurance\/\">public liability insurance<\/a> \u2013 covers legal expenses or compensation claims if clients, suppliers, or members of the public get injured or lose out financially because of your business<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/personal-accident-insurance\/\">personal accident insurance<\/a> \u2013 a cash payout in case of bodily injury or death following an accident<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/business-health-insurance\/\">self-employed health insurance<\/a> \u2013 a health plan that gives you 24\/7 access to a GP, plus the option of accessing  healthcare through a network of private hospitals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6organiseyouraccountingandrecordkeeping\">6. Organise your accounting and record keeping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you\u2019re running your own business, it\u2019s important you know your financial responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many self-employed people hire a professional adviser or accountant to help with their taxes and finances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/banking\/best-small-business-bank-account\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1332\" >business bank account<\/a> will help you keep your personal and business finances separate, making <a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-tax\/how-long-to-keep-tax-records\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1407\" >record keeping<\/a> (and claiming tax-deductible expenses) easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also monitor your business\u2019s health by keeping your <a href=\"\/knowledge\/cash-flow\/what-is-a-cash-flow-forecast\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"972\" >cash flow forecast<\/a> up-to-date, as well as using a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/income\/how-to-budget-calculator-and-guide-for-the-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"956\" >budget calculator<\/a> to know how much you can afford.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7findwork\">7. Find work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the UK government committed to \u2018levelling up\u2019 infrastructure in cities and towns across the country, self-employed people in construction could soon be in high demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Self-employed groundworkers can find work on job boards like <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.indeed.com\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Indeed<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.totaljobs.com\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Totaljobs<\/a>, as well as sign up with recruitment agencies like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hays.co.uk\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Hays<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.randstad.co.uk\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Randstad<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As mentioned earlier though, references are important in the construction industry \u2013 so existing contacts, as well as referrals from people you\u2019ve worked with successfully in the past, should come in handy when you\u2019re looking for work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What\u2019s your experience of becoming a self-employed groundworker? Let us know in the comments below.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-200-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-94e519ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"areyouprotectingyourtools\">Are you protecting your tools?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">As the UK&#8217;s biggest <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5152\" >business insurance<\/a> provider, we know the importance of covering your tools. Why not take a look now and build a quick, tailored <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/tool-insurance\/\/\">tool insurance quote<\/a>?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/quote.simplybusiness.co.uk\/business\">Start your quote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div id=\"nba-body-end\">\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you thinking of becoming a groundworker and setting up your own business? Here\u2019s our step-by-step guide to qualifications, training and insurance.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3830,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"sb_hreflang":"","sb_hreflang_url":"","disable_breadcrumbs":false,"sb_breadcrumbs":[],"sb_reviewed_by":"","sb_review_date":"","sb_enable_content_gating":true,"footnotes":""},"categories":[110,339,343],"hidden-category":[],"coauthors":[26],"class_list":["post-966","knowledge","type-knowledge","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-news","category-starting-out","category-trades"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Groundworker: how to become one and be self-employed<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you thinking of becoming a groundworker and setting up your own business? Here\u2019s our step-by-step guide to qualifications, training and insurance.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to become a groundworker\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Groundworkers prepare the ground before construction. Here\u2019s how to set up your own groundworking business.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Simply Business UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/simplybusiness\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-05-22T13:18:45+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@simplybusiness\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"Sam Bromley\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Sam Bromley\",\"description\":\"\\nSam has more than 10 years of experience in writing for financial services.\u00a0He specialises in illuminating complicated topics, from IR35 to ISAs, and identifying emerging trends that audiences want to know about.\u00a0Sam spent five years at Simply Business, where he was Senior Copywriter.\"},\"headline\":\"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-05-21T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-22T13:18:45+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\"},\"wordCount\":1341,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Small business news\",\"Starting out\",\"Trades\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\",\"name\":\"Groundworker: how to become one and be self-employed\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-05-21T00:00:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-22T13:18:45+00:00\",\"description\":\"Are you thinking of becoming a groundworker and setting up your own business? Here\u2019s our step-by-step guide to qualifications, training and insurance.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\",\"width\":4000,\"height\":2667,\"caption\":\"how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Knowledge\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/%category%\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/\",\"name\":\"Simply Business UK\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#\/schema\/person\/73ec77668d0ec554cd7df8942c664049\",\"name\":\"elliottstocks\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/simply-business\/dist\/images\/default-author-avatar.webp9df6147f02078f0218660330fdfbacf3\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/simply-business\/dist\/images\/default-author-avatar.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/simply-business\/dist\/images\/default-author-avatar.webp\",\"caption\":\"elliottstocks\"}},{\"@type\":\"PostalAddress\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#local-main-place-address\",\"streetAddress\":\"Hylo, 105 Bunhill Row\",\"addressLocality\":\"London\",\"postalCode\":\"EC1Y 8LZ\",\"addressCountry\":\"GB\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#local-main-organization-logo\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/logo.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/logo.png\",\"width\":533,\"height\":187,\"caption\":\"Simply Business UK\"}]}<\/script>\n<meta name=\"geo.placename\" content=\"London\" \/>\n<meta name=\"geo.region\" content=\"United Kingdom (UK)\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Groundworker: how to become one and be self-employed","description":"Are you thinking of becoming a groundworker and setting up your own business? Here\u2019s our step-by-step guide to qualifications, training and insurance.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to become a groundworker","og_description":"Groundworkers prepare the ground before construction. Here\u2019s how to set up your own groundworking business.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","og_site_name":"Simply Business UK","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/simplybusiness","article_modified_time":"2025-05-22T13:18:45+00:00","og_image":[{"url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg","type":"","width":"","height":""}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_title":"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business","twitter_site":"@simplybusiness","twitter_misc":{"Est. reading time":"7 minutes","Written by":"Sam Bromley"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/"},"author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Sam Bromley","description":"\nSam has more than 10 years of experience in writing for financial services.\u00a0He specialises in illuminating complicated topics, from IR35 to ISAs, and identifying emerging trends that audiences want to know about.\u00a0Sam spent five years at Simply Business, where he was Senior Copywriter."},"headline":"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business","datePublished":"2021-05-21T00:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-22T13:18:45+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/"},"wordCount":1341,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg","articleSection":["Small business news","Starting out","Trades"],"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","name":"Groundworker: how to become one and be self-employed","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg","datePublished":"2021-05-21T00:00:00+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-22T13:18:45+00:00","description":"Are you thinking of becoming a groundworker and setting up your own business? Here\u2019s our step-by-step guide to qualifications, training and insurance.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg","width":4000,"height":2667,"caption":"how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Knowledge","item":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/%category%\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/","name":"Simply Business UK","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/#\/schema\/person\/73ec77668d0ec554cd7df8942c664049","name":"elliottstocks","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/simply-business\/dist\/images\/default-author-avatar.webp9df6147f02078f0218660330fdfbacf3","url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/simply-business\/dist\/images\/default-author-avatar.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/simply-business\/dist\/images\/default-author-avatar.webp","caption":"elliottstocks"}},{"@type":"PostalAddress","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#local-main-place-address","streetAddress":"Hylo, 105 Bunhill Row","addressLocality":"London","postalCode":"EC1Y 8LZ","addressCountry":"GB"},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/#local-main-organization-logo","url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/logo.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/logo.png","width":533,"height":187,"caption":"Simply Business UK"}]},"geo.placename":"London","geo.region":"United Kingdom (UK)"},"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"http:\/\/simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business","url":"http:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\/"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg?w=150&h=150&crop=1","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg"},"articleSection":"Small business news","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Sam Bromley"}],"creator":["Sam Bromley"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Simply Business UK","logo":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/04\/icon-512x512-1.png"},"keywords":[],"dateCreated":"2021-05-21T00:00:00Z","datePublished":"2021-05-21T00:00:00Z","dateModified":"2025-05-22T13:18:45Z"},"rendered":"<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"wp-parsely-metadata\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"headline\":\"How to become a groundworker and set up your own business\",\"url\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\\\/knowledge\\\/starting-out\\\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\\\/\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\\\/knowledge\\\/starting-out\\\/how-to-become-a-groundworker\\\/\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/3\\\/2024\\\/05\\\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg?w=150&h=150&crop=1\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/3\\\/2024\\\/05\\\/how-to-become-a-groundworker.jpg\"},\"articleSection\":\"Small business news\",\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Sam Bromley\"}],\"creator\":[\"Sam Bromley\"],\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Simply Business UK\",\"logo\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/3\\\/2024\\\/04\\\/icon-512x512-1.png\"},\"keywords\":[],\"dateCreated\":\"2021-05-21T00:00:00Z\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-05-21T00:00:00Z\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-22T13:18:45Z\"}<\/script>","tracker_url":"https:\/\/cdn.parsely.com\/keys\/simplybusiness.co.uk\/p.js"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/knowledge\/966","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/knowledge"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/knowledge"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=966"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/knowledge\/966\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37823,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/knowledge\/966\/revisions\/37823"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3830"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=966"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=966"},{"taxonomy":"hidden-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/hidden-category?post=966"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=966"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}