Business Details
Expert Accountants for the Construction Industry in Southampton
Established by Claire Adams, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in finance, Paper Trail Bookkeeping specialises in providing tailored accountancy solutions for sole traders and small businesses in the construction industry. Our expertise in Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) compliance, VAT returns, and bookkeeping ensures clients maintain accurate records while optimising cash flow. We utilise industry-leading software such as Xero and QuickBooks to streamline financial processes, offering flexible support that adapts to each client's unique needs. As a licensed member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB), we uphold rigorous professional standards and provide fully insured services.Our commitment to simplicity and transparency allows clients to focus on growing their businesses without the burden of complex financial management. With a practice built on trust and technical proficiency, we deliver expert legal and technical support backed by continuous professional development. Our services extend across Southampton, Hampshire, and the wider UK, catering to contractors, subcontractors, and small businesses seeking reliable financial partnerships.
Services
Bookkeeping
Tax Returns
Payroll
Company Tax
CIS Returns
Cash Flow Forecasts
Xero Accounts Software
Final Accounts
Self Assessment
VAT Returns
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience supporting construction industry businesses
- Our services are fully tailored to individual business requirements
- We utilise trusted accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks
- Specialist expertise in Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) compliance
- Fully insured practice with Institute of Certified Bookkeepers accreditation
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB)
Services
Bookkeeping
Comprehensive bookkeeping services tailored to construction industry businesses. We manage income and expense tracking, CIS deductions, and financial reporting using Xero and QuickBooks software. Our system ensures accurate records that support informed business decisions while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements. Services adapt to varying business sizes and complexities.
Tax Returns
Specialist tax return preparation for sole traders and limited companies. We handle self-assessment submissions, company tax returns, and CIS verification processes. Our approach ensures compliance with HMRC regulations while identifying legitimate deductions to minimise tax liabilities. Regular updates keep clients informed about changing tax obligations throughout the financial year.
Payroll
Tailored payroll solutions for construction businesses with multiple subcontractors. We process payments, calculate CIS deductions, and manage pension contributions. Our system integrates with accounting software to maintain accurate financial records. Flexible scheduling accommodates varying project timelines and workforce requirements while ensuring compliance with employment regulations.
CIS Returns
Expert management of Construction Industry Scheme requirements. We verify subcontractors, calculate and submit monthly CIS returns, and maintain audit-ready records. Our service ensures compliance with HMRC regulations while optimising cash flow through accurate deduction calculations. Regular reporting helps businesses track CIS-related financial obligations and entitlements.
VAT Returns
VAT return preparation and submission services for construction businesses. We ensure accurate calculation of VAT liabilities, reclaim eligible expenses, and maintain proper documentation. Our approach optimises VAT cash flow while maintaining compliance with HMRC requirements. Regular reviews identify opportunities for VAT scheme optimisation based on business turnover and structure.
People
Claire Adams
Founder
Qualified bookkeeper with 25+ years' experience in financial management. Former finance manager at major investment group handling 14m budgets. ICB licensed practitioner specialising in construction industry accounting. Established Paper Trail Bookkeeping to provide accessible financial solutions for small businesses.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for construction businesses?
We provide bookkeeping, CIS returns, VAT returns, payroll, and tax return services specifically tailored for construction industry businesses.
How do you handle Construction Industry Scheme requirements?
We manage CIS verification, monthly returns, and deduction calculations while ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations and maintaining audit-ready records.
What accounting software do you use?
We work with Xero and QuickBooks accounting software to provide digital bookkeeping solutions that integrate with payroll and tax reporting systems.
Are you qualified to provide accountancy services?
Yes, we hold a practice licence with the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers and maintain professional indemnity insurance for client protection.
What areas do you serve?
We support businesses in Southampton, Hampshire, and across the UK with both local and remote accounting services.
How flexible are your service arrangements?
Our services adapt to your needs - from daily support to quarterly check-ins - with tailored packages that match your business requirements.
