The Baseline

6 Jun 2023
4 minute read

Are regulatory roadblocks hampering ambition?

The UK is often seen as a place that is 'open for business', but recently a number of high-profile regulatory delays have meant that major companies are now considering listing overseas instead.

1 Jun 2023
6 minute read

A guide to National Insurance for the self-employed [2023 update]

Freelancers and the self-employed pay their National Insurance contributions a little differently to people employed by a company. Read our guide to the ins and outs of how National Insurance works for the self-employed.

31 May 2023
5 minute read

A landlord’s guide to HMO licensing

Around 1 in 10 private rented properties in the UK are classed as houses in multiple occupation (HMOs). We explore what licences landlords need to let out their HMO properties.

24 May 2023
2 minute read

Superscript & aiSure – performance guarantee for AI businesses

We’re incredibly proud to announce that we're now offering cutting-edge AI businesses a leading insurance-backed performance guarantee product, aiSure, in conjunction with Munich Re.

22 May 2023
7 minute read

What do EPC rules mean for landlords?

Government rules around Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in rental homes have changed in recent years, with another major change coming into force in 2028. We break down what all this means for landlords.

18 May 2023
5 minute read

What the abolition of Section 21 means for landlords [2023 update]

The UK government has introduced a Renters (Reform) Bill, committed to abolishing Section 21 'no-fault' evictions, to parliament. Here we break down what this means for landlords.

15 May 2023
4 minute read

Welcome to the startup and scaleup zoo

Unicorns are seen as the benchmark or success in the startup and scaleup world, but what other animals deserve their moment in the business limelight?

4 May 2023
8 minute read

Should I rent to tenants with pets?

Pet-friendly lets are a pretty controversial issue. But how should landlords handle tenants with four-legged family members? Here’s some advice to help you decide what to do (and how to take the next steps).

13 Apr 2023
6 minute read

A guide to importing and exporting for online retailers

Running an ecommerce business can often involve importing stock from overseas and selling and exporting products to customers abroad. Here’s your guide to the customs, licensing and tax rules.

11 Apr 2023
7 minute read

A small business guide to registering for VAT

All businesses with an annual turnover greater than £85,000 must register for Value Added Tax (VAT) and complete a VAT return. Read our VAT guide for small businesses, breaking down how to register and pay your taxes.