Opening a hair or beauty salon in the UK (2026 guide)
HMRC registration, business rates, PRS music licensing, GDPR for client records — the UK-specific checklist most templates miss.
Register with HMRC
Sole trader is the fastest start — register for Self Assessment within 3 months of trading. Once turnover crosses £90,000 in any rolling 12 months you must register for VAT (rate 20%). Most independent salons stay below this; chains and high-ticket aesthetics usually cross it.
Business rates and small business relief
Your local council bills business rates on the rateable value of your unit. If your rateable value is under £15,000 you can claim Small Business Rate Relief — under £12,000 it's 100% off. Apply directly with the council, not HMRC.
Music licensing (PPL PRS)
Playing Spotify or radio in-salon legally requires TheMusicLicence from PPL PRS — annual fee scales with floor area and staff. Enforcement is active in the UK; don't skip this.
GDPR client records
Consultation cards count as personal data. You need a lawful basis (usually consent + legitimate interest for aftercare follow-up) and a retention policy. Digital client cards in Beautifyx are encrypted and exportable for subject access requests.
Insurance
Public liability (£2m minimum), treatment liability for any skin-piercing service, and employer's liability (£5m, legally required) if you have staff. Salon Gold, Babcock, and Westminster are the common UK brokers.