Why Tiling Contractors Should Take CPD Seriously (And How CITB Can Help)

When a tiler decides to go self-employed or set up a limited company, there’s no formal requirement for training or qualifications. You don’t need a license to operate, and there are no mandatory business courses to complete. It’s just a case of getting insured, registering with HMRC, and getting to work.

That sounds great in theory—until you realise how many small tiling businesses struggle to survive past the first few years. The reason? It’s not a lack of skill with tiles, adhesives, or grouting. It’s the business side of things.

The Gap in Tiling Education

Most tilers who go out on their own have never been taught how to run a business. They know how to tile, but do they know how to price a job properly? Do they understand P&L statements, budgets, or sales processes? Can they confidently sell their services to potential clients?

If the answer is no, they’re at a serious disadvantage. And the industry as a whole suffers because of it.

That’s why the wall and floor tiling curriculum should include basic business education—covering everything from finance and administration to customer service and professional communication. A skilled tiler who understands business principles will:

• Price jobs properly (instead of undercutting themselves)

• Communicate professionally with customers

• Present themselves well (branding, van, website, quotes)

• Handle disputes and callbacks efficiently

• Build a long-term, sustainable business

Without these skills, even the best tilers can struggle to grow.

CITB Funding: A Game Changer for Small Businesses

This is where CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) funding can make a real difference. CITB has funding pots available for small construction businesses to help upskill their workforce—not just at the operator level but right through to supervisors, managers, and senior leadership.

For businesses in tiling and other specialist trades, this funding can be a game-changer. It allows small companies to:

• Train their teams in business, leadership, and management

• Support staff in gaining formal qualifications (NVQs, BTECs, Diplomas)

• Develop a pipeline of skilled workers through apprenticeships

I’ve taken full advantage of this funding myself. I’ve completed:

• NVQ Level 1 & 2 in Wall & Floor Tiling

• BTEC Level 4 Certificate in Education (for teaching)

• Business Growth Accelerator

• Level 7 Directors Development Programme Accelerator

Next up, I’ll be tackling CITB Level 3 Construction Contracting Operations and Level 6 Construction Contracting Operations Management.

And if CITB funding continues into 2026, we’ll be taking on CITB apprentices as our business grows. That’s the long-term vision.

Why CPD Matters (Even for Small Contractors)

For tilers, CPD (Continuing Professional Development) isn’t just about keeping up with new materials or techniques. It’s about building a stronger, more resilient business.

Investing in CPD means:

• Learning better business strategies to increase profitability

• Developing leadership and management skills to grow a team

• Understanding compliance, regulations, and industry standards

• Building credibility and trust with clients and contractors

The best tiling contractors aren’t just great with a trowel—they understand the business side too.

The Future of Tiling Businesses

As Ian Reynolds puts it:

“Being a good tiler isn’t just about producing good work—it’s the full package. How do they present themselves? How does their van look? Do they communicate effectively? If there’s an issue, will they come back? There’s more to this trade than installing tiles. Getting the business side right from the start helps to establish a solid foundation.”

That’s exactly why small tiling businesses should take CPD seriously—and why they should be making the most of CITB funding while it’s available.

If you’re in the tiling trade and haven’t looked into CPD or CITB training yet, now’s the time. Your business (and your future) will thank you for it.