Business Details
Expert Accountants for the Construction Industry
Founded by Claire Adams, Paper Trail Bookkeeping specialises in delivering precise and reliable accounting services tailored to sole traders and small businesses across Southampton and Hampshire. With over 25 years of experience in finance, including managing budgets exceeding 14 million for a major investment group, our expertise spans bookkeeping, payroll, VAT returns, and CIS compliance. We prioritise simplicity and clarity, utilising trusted software like Xero and QuickBooks to streamline financial processes for contractors and subcontractors in the construction industry.Our commitment to continuous professional development through the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers ensures adherence to evolving regulations. By offering flexible engagement models, we empower clients to focus on business growth while we handle financial complexities. Our practice licence (ICB 20173) and full insurance coverage underscore our dedication to trustworthiness and regulatory compliance. We distinguish ourselves through jargon-free communication, bespoke service packages, and a client-centric approach that values transparency and practical solutions.
Services
Bookkeeping
Tax Returns
Payroll
Company Tax
CIS Returns
VAT Returns
Cash Flow Forecasts
Final Accounts
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of construction industry accounting expertise.
- Our bespoke packages adapt to your business's unique requirements.
- We utilise Xero and QuickBooks for accurate, cloud-based financial management.
- Our ICB accreditation ensures compliance with latest regulatory standards.
- Flexible engagement models suit businesses of all sizes and needs.
Associations and certifications
- Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB)
Services
Bookkeeping
We manage day-to-day financial transactions for construction businesses, ensuring accurate income and expense tracking. Our cloud-based Xero and QuickBooks systems provide real-time financial visibility. With tailored solutions for contractors and subcontractors, we simplify CIS compliance and cash flow management while maintaining audit-ready records.
CIS Returns
Specialised CIS verification and deduction management for contractors and subcontractors. We handle HMRC submissions, ensuring correct tax withholdings and timely payments. Our expertise reduces compliance risks while optimising cash flow through accurate CIS scheme administration for businesses across Hampshire and the UK.
Payroll
Comprehensive payroll processing tailored to construction industry needs. We calculate wages, manage pension contributions, and ensure PAYE compliance. Flexible integration with accounting systems provides seamless financial reporting. Our service accommodates fluctuating workforce demands while maintaining strict adherence to employment tax regulations.
Tax Returns
Preparation and submission of self-assessment and company tax returns for construction professionals. We identify allowable deductions and ensure HMRC compliance. From sole traders to limited companies, our strategic approach minimises tax liabilities while maintaining accurate documentation for audits and regulatory inspections.
VAT Returns
Accurate VAT return preparation and submission for construction businesses. We optimise VAT reclaim opportunities while ensuring CIS scheme compatibility. Monthly or quarterly reporting options accommodate business needs. Our proactive approach prevents penalties through precise calculation and timely submissions aligned with HMRC requirements.
People
Claire Adams
Founder
Former finance professional with 25+ years' experience managing multi-million-pound budgets. Certified ICB bookkeeper specialising in construction industry accounting. Launched Paper Trail Bookkeeping to simplify financial management for small businesses through technology and practical solutions.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for construction businesses?
We provide bookkeeping, CIS returns, payroll, VAT returns, and tax filing specifically tailored to construction industry needs.
How do you handle CIS compliance for contractors?
We manage CIS verification, deduction calculations, and HMRC submissions to ensure full compliance with current regulations.
Can you assist with both personal and company tax returns?
Yes, we prepare self-assessment tax returns for individuals and company tax returns for limited businesses.
What accounting software do you use?
We specialise in Xero and QuickBooks cloud accounting systems for accurate, real-time financial management.
Are you qualified to provide accountancy services?
We hold an ICB practice licence (20173) and maintain full professional insurance coverage for client protection.
Reviews (6)
Karl Harvey
Nov 22, 2020
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I use papertrail book keeping for my ltd business.
Claire is amazing and handles all my accounts nothing is to much trouble, if your looking for a book keeper, look no further. You want find anyone better.
Claire is amazing and handles all my accounts nothing is to much trouble, if your looking for a book keeper, look no further. You want find anyone better.
Alan Sainsbury
Nov 07, 2020
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Claire was recommended to me. What a difference to my previous accountant (better by a mile).
Claire is very knowledgeable,helpfull and extremely good at replying and her costs are very reasonable. If you need a decent accountant,Call claire.
Claire is very knowledgeable,helpfull and extremely good at replying and her costs are very reasonable. If you need a decent accountant,Call claire.
Ben Michaelis
Jun 09, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
The Papertrail team are fantastic! Helpful and professional in every way. They are always on hand to support our business and Id highly recommend them!
The Papertrail team are fantastic! Helpful and professional in every way. They are always on hand to support our business and Id highly recommend them!
Nikki Milner
Sep 28, 2017
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Very professional and friendly service. Would highly recommend paper trail book keeping to anyone. I wouldnt consider using anyone else from now on.
Matt Plaskett
Aug 17, 2017
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Extremely thorough service, very helpful and easy to approach with any accounting/tax/book keeping questions. Can't recommend enough! Will never use another company.
Robert Cox
Aug 12, 2017
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I would highly recommend using Paper Trail Bookkeeping. A very professional and efficient company that made setting up our accounts simple and stress free.
