Building Innovation: R&D Tax Credits for the Construction Sector
The construction industry is rapidly evolving, with new materials, methods, and digital tools. We help you claim R&D tax credits for the on-site problem-solving and innovation that drives your projects forward.
Why Construction Projects Qualify
R&D in construction happens when you face a challenge where standard methods are inadequate. It's the process of developing, testing, and implementing a new technique, material, or system to overcome a technological uncertainty, whether it's on a challenging site or for a unique design.
Qualifying R&D Activities in Construction
From the drawing board to the final build, innovation can occur at every stage of a construction project.
Innovative Construction Techniques
Developing new methods to reduce project time, improve safety, or overcome unique on-site challenges.
New & Sustainable Materials
Developing or adapting new, sustainable, or recycled building materials and devising methods for their use in construction.
Prefabrication & Modular Methods
Designing and developing new prefabricated or modular construction systems to improve efficiency and quality.
BIM & Digital Construction
Developing bespoke BIM scripts, automation routines, or new digital tools to manage and optimise construction processes.
Advanced Safety Systems
Developing and trialling new systems, equipment, or methodologies to improve the safety of construction sites.
Bespoke M&E Systems
Designing and integrating novel mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to meet unique building requirements.
Case Study: Deep Basement Excavation
The Challenge
A construction firm was building on a tight urban site with poor ground conditions, requiring a deep basement next to a historic building. Standard excavation and shoring techniques posed a high risk of subsidence. The technological uncertainty was how to excavate safely without damaging the adjacent structure.
The R&D Solution
The team developed a novel top-down construction method combined with an innovative, real-time monitoring system using fibre-optic sensors. They trialled new low-vibration piling techniques and developed a bespoke propping system. This iterative process of design, modelling, and on-site testing ensured the project's success.
The claim covered the salaries of the site engineers and project managers during the development phase, costs for the specialist sensor technology, and materials for the temporary works trials.
Your Partner in Construction R&D Claims
We understand the unique, project-based nature of the construction industry and the challenges of documenting on-site R&D.
Identifying On-Site R&D
Our experts are skilled at identifying qualifying R&D that occurs during the construction phase, which is often overlooked as simple 'problem-solving'.
Robust Record Keeping
We help you implement simple processes to capture the necessary evidence for a successful claim, from site diaries and meeting minutes to trial documentation.
Are Your Projects Breaking New Ground?
The challenges you overcome on-site could be a valuable source of funding for your next project. Discover your R&D tax credit potential with a free, no-obligation review.
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