An overview of the key compliance documents Irish trades businesses are typically required to maintain. This is general information — always verify current requirements with the relevant regulatory body.
Irish trades businesses operate within a regulatory framework that has grown considerably more detailed over the past decade. Between health and safety legislation, trade-specific registration requirements, insurance obligations and Revenue compliance, the list of documents a typical electrician, plumber, builder or mechanic needs to keep current is longer than most business owners realise.
The consequences of a gap in compliance documentation vary — from difficulty accessing certain sites or contracts, to issues during Revenue or HSA inspections, to problems with insurance claims. Understanding what documents you need and when they expire is the foundation of good compliance management.
Note: This guide provides general information about common compliance document categories. It is not legal advice. Requirements vary by trade, business structure and circumstances. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant regulatory body or a qualified adviser.
Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland (RECI) registration is required for electrical contractors carrying out certain categories of electrical work in Ireland. Registration requires evidence of technical competence and appropriate insurance.
Safe Pass is a national health and safety awareness programme for construction workers in Ireland. A valid Safe Pass card is required for anyone working on construction sites. Cards are valid for four years from the date of training.
Public liability insurance covers claims made against your business by members of the public for injury or property damage. Many main contractors and site managers require evidence of current public liability cover before allowing access to site.
Certificates of compliance for completed electrical installations. These need to be retained as evidence that work was carried out to the required standard. Good record-keeping of completion certs protects the business in the event of any dispute.
Manual handling training is a requirement under Irish health and safety legislation for workers who carry out manual handling tasks. While there is no statutory renewal period, regular refresher training is generally expected.
A Tax Clearance Certificate from Revenue confirms that a business's tax affairs are in order. It is required for certain public contracts and grants. Tax clearance status can be checked online through the Revenue website.
Register of Gas Installers of Ireland (RGI) registration is required for anyone carrying out gas installation work in Ireland. Registration is a legal requirement under the Gas (Consolidation) Act 2009 and associated regulations.
Certificates confirming that gas installations have been carried out safely and to the required standard. These must be provided to the customer and retained by the installer as part of their compliance records.
Required for any plumber working on construction sites in Ireland. Valid for four years from the date of training. A new Safe Pass card must be obtained before the existing one expires to avoid a gap in compliance.
Essential cover for plumbing businesses. Water damage claims can be significant, making adequate public liability cover particularly important for plumbers working in domestic and commercial properties.
Construction Industry Federation (CIF) membership is held by many building contractors in Ireland. Membership provides access to industry resources and can be a requirement for certain contracts and procurement processes.
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card certifies that the holder has received appropriate health and safety training for their role. Required on most construction sites in Ireland.
A legal requirement for all construction workers in Ireland. The Safe Pass programme covers general health and safety awareness and is a prerequisite for working on any construction site.
Project Supervisor for the Construction Stage (PSWC) documentation is required on construction projects above certain thresholds. Proper records of PSWC appointment and compliance must be maintained.
Legally required for any business with employees in Ireland. Employer liability insurance covers claims made by employees for work-related injury or illness. Evidence of cover is required on most construction sites.
Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) membership is held by motor trade businesses in Ireland. Membership provides industry recognition and access to technical resources and training.
Garages authorised to carry out NCT-related repairs or pre-NCT inspections need to maintain appropriate authorisation documentation and records of work carried out.
Vehicle lifts must be inspected by a competent person at regular intervals under Irish health and safety legislation. Current inspection certificates must be maintained and available for inspection.
Motor garages produce regulated waste including used oil, filters and tyres. Appropriate waste management permits and records of waste disposal are required under Irish environmental legislation.
Required for public sector contracts and grants. Available through Revenue's online portal. Status can be verified electronically by third parties.
Covers third-party claims for injury or property damage. Certificate of insurance required by most main contractors and property managers before work commences.
Legally required for businesses with employees. Covers claims from employees for work-related injury or illness. Minimum cover levels apply under Irish law.
Required for all workers on construction sites in Ireland. Valid for four years. Must be renewed before expiry to maintain continuous site access eligibility.
VAT registration, income tax and employer PAYE registration documents as applicable. Keeping copies of registration confirmations is good practice.
Certificate of incorporation for limited companies, or registration confirmation for sole traders and partnerships. Required for many commercial contracts and banking relationships.
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