How to Start a Tile-Setter Business
Education or training in tile setting
Business plan
Contractor or business license
Federal tax identification number
Business insurance
Business cards
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Things You'll Need
- For those with experience in tile setting, starting a small business devoted to setting tile in residential and commercials properties is not uncommon. Tile setters are needed to install various types of tile including marble, granite and ceramic tile. Becoming a small business owner allows you to have more control over the types of projects you want to be a part of.
Instructions
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Obtain the training and education necessary to become a tile setter. Most tile setters learn their skills on-the-job through apprenticeships or from a trade school. The more experience you have as a tile settler, the easier it will be to sell your services to customers.
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Contact your state's contractor licensing board or small business office and ask about business license requirements needed to open a tile setting business. While some states require you to apply for a general or residential contractor's license, others only require a general small business license.
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Purchase business insurance that includes general liability, property, disability and worker's compensation coverage. Purchase enough insurance to cover all equipment and employees adequately. Health insurance is not required to start a business, but can be beneficial to you and your employees.
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Create a business plan that outlines how you plan to run a tile setting business. Include the cost of equipment, vehicles, marketing, insurance, rent if you need an office or retail space, employees and other costs such as utilities, cell phone and Internet if you plan to create a website.
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Register your business with the IRS to obtain an Employee Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, for tax purposes. Depending on the state in which you live, you may have to register your business as a sole proprietorship or limited liability corporation if considered a contractor. To learn more about EIN and business structures, visit IRS.gov. Contact your state's small business office to learn more about the type of business structure to create.
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Attend home remodeling expos shows and local small business networking events so you can meet other contractors. Teaming with a remodeling company, plumber, electrician and others can help increase profits and build a strong customer base. Advertise in local newspapers, online or in trade magazines to increase customer awareness.
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Tips & Warnings
A solid business plan helps greatly when applying for a small business loan from a bank or other lending institution.
Consider applying for a contractor's license even if your state does not require one as many homeowners feel more comfortable hiring licensed contractors to perform work in their homes.
Before working with another contractor, research her business by reading online reviews or by conducting a search through the Better Business Bureau to determine whether the contractor is someone you want to associate with.
