If someone works in your studio as a self-employed contractor, you might wonder whether a contract is necessary. The short answer is yes.

Just because someone is not your employee does not mean you should skip putting clear terms in writing. Having a contract in place protects both sides. It sets out expectations, explains the pay structure, outlines responsibilities, and establishes boundaries. Importantly, it also demonstrates to HMRC that your business is set up correctly and operating within the rules.

It is worth stressing that having a contract does not turn a self-employed person into an employee. The document simply provides clarity and protection, making sure that everyone understands how the working relationship is structured.

Why an agreement matters

A well-drafted contractor agreement can:

• Prevent misunderstandings between you and your contractors
• Protect both parties if disputes arise
• Support your compliance with HMRC rules

In short, it helps your business run more smoothly while also giving your contractors peace of mind.

Where to start

If you are unsure how to put together a contractor agreement, we have created a free sample specifically designed for studios working with self-employed staff. It covers the essentials and gives you a practical starting point.

You can download the free sample contractor agreement and start putting the right protections in place today. 

👉 Download here