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Construction, design and architecture

Construction, design and architecture

Brebners have long supported businesses in the construction, design and architecture sectors. We act for a wide range of clients including construction companies, architectural practices, interior designers and design‑led professional services firms.

As a result, we have extensive experience of the financial, commercial and regulatory issues faced by businesses operating in these sectors and understand challenges resulting from long contract cycles, cash flow volatility, revenue recognition complexities, regulatory compliance and managing risk across multiple ongoing projects.

Why Choose Brebners

✔ Industry experience and expertise

Established in London in 1933, Brebners have long supported construction, design and architecture businesses across London, Kent (from our Sevenoaks office) and indeed across the UK.

We’re members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and uphold the highest standards.

✔ Wide-ranging support

Specialist services we offer to our construction, design and architecture clients include:

✔ Joined-up, partner-led service

We’re large enough to have specialists in all areas but small enough that you always receive a personalised service and quick answers.

From statutory audits, to bookkeeping and management accounts, VAT returns, payroll, corporate finance and due diligence, we have experts to help.

Our team will speak your language and offer jargon-free advice.

In the words of Michael Sullivan, Group Finance Director of Workstories:
“Having worked with Brebners for over 10 years across multiple companies, I cannot recommend them enough. Their tailored approach to any business problem is exemplary, and their communication is excellent throughout the entire engagement. They are responsive to the business inquiries and keep key stakeholders updated every step of the way, fostering transparency and trust in the partnership ... I highly recommend using Brebners if you are looking for professional, reliable, and trustworthy financial advisor”

For more testimonials, see Testimonials

Ready to Talk?

If you're looking for accountants for your architecture practice or design or construction firm who understand your industry, your challenges and your ambitions, our specialist team is here to help.

Contact us today for a free, no‑obligation discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue and cost recognition will depend on the accounting framework adopted and the precise terms of agreements in place with customers. FRS 102 (The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland) underwent key changes applicable for accounting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2026. Previously both revenue and costs may have been accounted for according to the stage of completion of a project based on the value to the customer (an ‘output method’ of recognising progress). As a result of the changes to FRS 102, contract costs are recognised as incurred even where revenue is recognised using an output method, giving rise to variations in reported contract margins over the project life. There are other important changes relevant to construction industry businesses, including changes to the treatment of costs incurred in obtaining a contract, and to revenue recognition where more than one product or service is bundled into a contract. Contact Brebners today for a no-obligation initial discussion if you require advice on this complex area.

The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) is a government framework designed to regulate tax payments within the construction industry. Under CIS, contractors are generally required to deduct tax from payments made to subcontractors and pass those deductions to HMRC as an advance payment towards those subcontractors’ tax and National Insurance liabilities.

There are important registration, verification and reporting requirements for businesses operating under CIS, and financial penalties can arise where the scheme is not applied correctly. Brebners’ specialists can provide practical guidance to help ensure your business remains compliant.

Many construction, architecture and design businesses lease premises, and amendments to FRS 102 which are applicable for accounting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2026 bring significant changes to lease accounting. Operating leases which might previously have been accounted for as a straightforward cost in the profit and loss account (e.g. ‘Rent’) will in many cases need to be brought onto the balance sheet, involving the calculation of a lease liability and right-of-use asset. To determine if this applies to your business and for guidance on the necessary calculations and accounting entries, contact Brebners today and we can advise further.

ICAEW IGAL The Association of Practising Accountants

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