If you’re a freelancer or subcontractor working in ecology, environmental consultancy, or natural resource sectors, you’ve probably heard of IR35 and maybe hoped it would quietly disappear.
Bad news: It’s still very much in play.
Good news: With the right support and setup, IR35 compliance doesn’t need to be complicated – and it definitely shouldn’t stop you from building a successful freelance career in 2025 and beyond.
What Is IR35?
IR35 is UK tax legislation designed to identify workers who are, in HMRC’s eyes, operating as “disguised employees.” That means you’re working like an employee but invoicing through a limited company to reduce your tax bill.
The rules determine whether a contractor should pay roughly the same tax and National Insurance contributions as an employee.
If you’re “inside IR35”, HMRC sees you as an employee for tax purposes, even if your contract says otherwise. You’d owe more in taxes, and may not be able to claim the same expenses or tax benefits.
For more information Understanding off-payroll working (IR35) – GOV.UK
What’s Changed – and What Hasn’t – in 2025?
Since the off-payroll working reforms hit the public sector in 2017 and the private sector in 2021, responsibility for determining IR35 status lies with:
- The client, if you’re working with a medium or large company
- You, if you’re working with a small company or organisation
So if you’re freelancing for ecology or arboriculture consultancies, small environmental firms, or local conservation projects, you’re probably responsible for your own IR35 status.
Despite noise around possible government reviews, IR35 has not been repealed. And enforcement continues to rise, particularly in sectors that deal with public funds, planning departments, or development infrastructure.
5 Common IR35 Risks for Freelancers
Even experienced freelancers unknowingly fall into IR35 trouble. The most common red flags?
- Lack of control – If your client dictates your hours, tasks, or tools
- No substitution clause – You’re expected to personally do the work
- Working like staff – Using their email, office space, or attending team meetings
- Long-term engagements – Repeated short-term contracts with the same client
- No formal contract – Or one that doesn’t reflect how you actually work
These factors suggest employment, not independent contractor status – which can land you inside IR35 and facing unexpected tax bills.
Why It Matters for Freelancers in Ecology & Environmental Sectors
Freelancers working in ecology, conservation, planning, or even local authority biodiversity teams often operate in hybrid grey areas.
- You may take on project work through a limited company
- You may split your time between volunteering, subcontracting, and fieldwork
- You may not even realise your contract puts you “inside IR35”
That’s why understanding IR35 – and structuring your freelance business properly – is essential in 2025.
How Solo Supports Freelancers with IR35 Compliance
At Solo, we specialise in supporting freelancers in niche sectors like ecology, arboriculture, and environmental consultancy – people who rarely fit into the cookie-cutter “freelancer” mould.
Here’s how we help:
IR35-Ready Contracts & Reviews
We provide templates that are written with IR35-safe clauses. Need a contract reviewed? We’ll walk through it with you and identify risks.
Business Structure Support
Should you be a sole trader or go limited? We help you weigh the pros and cons based on tax, compliance, and client expectations.
Ongoing Advice from Real Experts
No chatbots. You get access to experienced professionals who know the sector and keep up with HMRC guidelines and case law updates.
Finance & Tax Support
Our qualified accountants handle your returns, expenses, and bookkeeping – and make sure you’re not claiming anything you shouldn’t be under IR35.
Tools to Simplify Compliance
From project tracking tools to invoice templates and compliance checklists, we help you keep your business tidy, transparent, and HMRC-proof.
FAQs: IR35 for Freelancers in 2025
Q: Do I need to worry about IR35 if I only work with small companies?
Yes. If you’re contracting through a limited company, and the business you’re working with is “small,” you are responsible for determining and managing your own IR35 status.
Q: What if I’m a sole trader – does IR35 apply?
No – IR35 only applies to contractors working through intermediaries, like limited companies or personal service companies.
Q: What happens if I’m found inside IR35 after the fact?
You may be liable for backdated tax, National Insurance, and even interest. Having your contracts and working practices reviewed early can prevent this.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let IR35 Hold You Back
IR35 isn’t going anywhere – but that doesn’t mean you need to fear it.
With the right support, setup, and awareness, you can confidently build a freelance business that’s compliant, sustainable, and profitable.
At Solo, we’re not just here to help you “stay legal” – we’re here to help you grow.
Ready to make freelancing work for you?
Follow the Solo – Freelance LinkedIn page, check out our Starter Pack, or drop us a message for a no-pressure chat about what you need.
Let’s make 2025 the year you stop stressing over tax and start focusing on what you do best.
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