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How to Start a Business as a Cabinet Installer

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Businesses that install cabinets are responsible for affixing preassembled cabinets into the required space. But before launching this type of business, it’s important to acquire industry experience and secure the necessary licensing and insurance to protect your company. In addition, you’ll need to build relationships with home improvement retailers to create steady revenue streams for your business. Here’s a guide to starting a business as a cabinet installer.

Get experience working as a cabinet installer. The first step in launching your business is gaining the required experience. If you haven’t worked professionally as a cabinet installer, apply for a position with a company and work 2 to 3 years before venturing out on your own.

Design a business plan for your company. After gaining the required experience, create a business plan that discusses how you will operate, finance and market your business. If you haven’t created a business plan before, check out Bplans (see Resources below), a company that provides free templates.

Secure the necessary licenses. Some states require cabinet installers to secure a contractor's license. To accomplish this, check out your state’s permit and licenses section on its website. This should list requirements, such as an application and state exam. And if there’s a state exam, a study guide may also be available on the website. You will also need to apply for a business license with your city hall department.

Purchase insurance for your cabinet installing business. Cabinet installers should carry large insurance policies to protect their company in the event of a lawsuit. Consider purchasing a policy with a value of $1 million (or more, if possible). To find insurance providers in your area, contact your state contractor’s board.

Create relationships with large home improvement stores. They often recommend subcontractors to install cabinets that individuals purchase. Establishing these relationships will secure a steady stream of business.

Tip

Have an attorney assist in creating contracts. It’s important to include verbiage that will protect your company from nonpaying clients. Some states will allow you to place a lien against the property in cases of nonpayment.

Warning

Consider creating a website for your cabinet installing company. This will create a professional image for your company. Check out Yahoo! Business Hosting; it offers services that are user-friendly to those who haven’t designed a website before.

Resources
Tips
  • Have an attorney assist in creating contracts. It's important to include verbiage that will protect your company from nonpaying clients. Some states will allow you to place a lien against the property in cases of nonpayment.
Warnings
  • Consider creating a website for your cabinet installing company. This will create a professional image for your company. Check out Yahoo! Business Hosting; it offers services that are user-friendly to those who haven't designed a website before.
Writer

Nicki Howell started her professional writing career in 2002, specializing in areas such as health, fitness and personal finance. She has been published at health care websites, such as HealthTree, and is a ghostwriter for a variety of small health care organizations. She earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Portland State University.

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