The legal side of doing work from home may contain some red
tape which needs looking at; depending on the size and nature of the work you
will be doing.
Doing small scale work such as remote work for a company or
freelancing, generally won’t need any special permission. However, starting up
your own small business may need some planning and permission, especially if
your business includes an increase in visitor traffic or noise. Whether renting
or owning your own property, residential zoning means leases and title deeds
often contain clauses which prohibit business use. If renting you can check
your lease or ask your landlord for permission. If buying your own home, check
the title for information on restrictions as you may need to get permission,
especially when a residential mortgage is in place. Another bit of red tape
would be your neighbours. If your business in any way adds risk or prohibits
them from enjoying their own property they are well within their rights to take
you to court. Obviously if you plan on making any alterations to your home for
your work, then planning permission will be needed.
Also make sure to check whether your home insurance will
need changing as you don’t want to end up not being fully covered should
something happen. You may also want to look at public liability insurance to
cover third parties.
One last bit of red tape is special licenses. If your home
business is related to child care, food production, or hotel/B&B business
you will need special health and safety licenses in order to legally operate.
Now the fun part – creating your very own work-from-home
space! The great thing about not working in a corporate office or a tiny
cubicle is that you can design your office and hours to suit your personality
and your needs. If you already own a home, find a spot that is seldom used or
turn the spare room into your office. If you are looking for a new home and
know that you need to set up an office, you’ll want to keep that in mind. Look
for a home that has an extra room, make sure it is light and airy, easily
accessible without causing too much disruption to your everyday family life,
and can be expanded if you will need that option later on.
Once you find your ideal spot, here are a few essentials
you’ll need to think about to set up your work space:
• A
separate office space - to avoid unnecessary distraction; especially important
if you have children! If space is limited you could even convert a closet in a
room into a desk and workspace which is easy to close off when you are not
working.
• A routine
and clear boundaries – It is all too easy to be distracted by housework or a
quick catch-up with your friend, but to work from home productively you need to
be strict with yourself. Setting up clear boundaries with those around you, and
a routine which works with your day, is the best way to achieve success.
• A good
computer or laptop – one that is reliable and has efficient memory and speed
for your work requirements. You may want to look at one with a working camera
and mic if you’ll be attending remote meetings.
• A good
WiFi set-up - if you are doing remote work for a company you will need access
to files and work being sent. If running your own business going digital is far
easier than mountains of paperwork.
• A
productive work space – This is entirely personal. You may choose a standing
desk, a desk with a pilates ball, or a standard desk and comfortable chair. You
will want a calendar nearby where you can jot down appointments or deadlines,
or even just make notes. And of course you’ll need easy access to
files/books/stationery.
Other items depend entirely on your business needs. You may
want to install a printer/scanner, you may need shelves for files or reference
books. You may want to put up a clock so that you have a clear view of the
time. You could paint a wall with chalk paint and write down notes and plans as
you go along. Whatever you decide, it’s best to sit down first and write down
what your business will require and what you would like to include in your
space. In the end, plan a work space that will allow you to work efficiently as
well as create a sense of joy for what you do every day. Happy working!
Norgarb Properties Agent Andre Ter Moshuizen who specialises in the Claremont area, shares some household tips and handy home hints with you every month. Read more of his articles here. [https://harfield-village.blogspot.co.za/search?q=andre]
Andre Ter Moshuizen: 082 602 1367 | andre@norgarb.co.za | www.norgarbproperties.co.za
www.harfield-village.co.za
www.facebook.com/harfield.village.community
Andre Ter Moshuizen: 082 602 1367 | andre@norgarb.co.za | www.norgarbproperties.co.za
www.harfield-village.co.za
www.facebook.com/harfield.village.community