You’ve always dreamed of starting your own business, but what type of business should you launch? And how are you supposed to get started?

Window repair and installation is a good, low-cost option that can bring you a lot of success, and setting up your business and finding your first customers isn’t as hard as you might think. 

We’ve put together this guide to show you how to start a window installation company, so make sure you keep reading below for some helpful tips! 

1. Pick Your Business Name 

This is one of the most important steps of starting a business, and it can also be one of the most difficult. It can take weeks of brainstorming to come up with the right name, and it’s worth taking this time and doing your research to ensure you get a good one. 

A bad company name can impact every part of your business, from brand image and marketing to customer retention and more. Spend some time taking a look at your competitors in the area until you find a name that captures who you are as a business and stands out from everyone else. 

2. Register Your Business 

Registering your business will turn it into a legal entity.

During this step, you will need to pick what type of business you will be (such as a sole proprietorship, an LLC, a corporation, etc. You will also need to register your business with state and federal tax so you can operate without getting into legal trouble. To do this, you must apply for an EIN (employer identification number). 

Don’t skip these steps! Otherwise, you could be held personally liable if someone sues your business. And messing up or delaying your taxes can result in expensive penalties. 

3. Get the Proper Certification/Permits/Licensing 

You yourself might already have the necessary window repair and installation training, but before you can provide these services to your customers, you’ll need to get the necessary certification, permits, licensing, etc. 

This process can look different depending on where you live. 

The best way to find out what you need is to contact the local building department in your city. They will let you know what types of permits or licenses you need and show you how to get them. 

4. Buy a Commercial Vehicle 

It will be difficult to transport your window installation supplies to your customers’ homes or commercial buildings in your personal vehicle. A commercial vehicle will also give you a more professional and reputable appearance.

You can also use this vehicle to market your business as you’re driving through town. Write your business name and your contact information on the sides, and you can land new clients who see you while you’re on the road. 

5. Set up Your Business Insurance 

You may be able to set up your business insurance through your current insurance provider. However, if your current provider doesn’t have any business insurance policies, ask them to refer you to someone who can or spend some time researching companies in your area. 

Don’t forget to insure your commercial vehicle as well! 

6. Find a Supplier 

Without the proper supplies, you won’t have much of a window installation business. Make sure you find a supplier that provides quality products. This will give you a good reputation in the industry, and it will leave you with a lot of happy clients. 

It’s better to spend a bit of extra money on high-quality products than save money and give your customers poor results. Not only will this lower the amount of money you make for each installation, but it can also mean you’re giving your customers windows that don’t work very well, which can lead to costly repercussions. 

7. Create a Business Website 

The vast majority of people search products and services online before they spend any money. If your business doesn’t have a website, you will lose a lot of potential customers to your competitors. 

If you’re working with a tight budget, you can build a website yourself for cheap; it will get the job done. That said, a professional website will always perform better than a DIY one. If you can’t hire a professional website builder right away, plan to update your website as soon as possible. 

8. Outline Your Contracts 

Customers will want to see these before they start working with you, so you should at least have a few samples written out and ready to show. You may have to adjust these contracts to your specific client’s needs, but having a basic contract outline will make things a lot easier. 

9. Start Marketing 

The best way to grow your business, get new customers, and make money is through marketing. Again, if you don’t have a large budget, you can start off by doing this yourself. However, a professional marketing agency will help you put together a business plan that meets your goals then take your business to the next level. 

The Best Way to Start a Window Installation Company

Starting a window installation company takes time, but if you follow the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to generate a livable income quickly. 

Don’t want to wait?

Struggling to start a business from scratch isn’t your only option. If you have the revenue, you can also buy a company that’s already successful, which you can continue to grow or even turn into a franchise. 

Want to learn more information about running a window installation company? Make sure you get in touch with our team at Window Medics today!