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How to Start a Roofing Business Checklist ✔️
There are a number of steps you will need to complete in order to start a roofing business. Some of these steps are critical because they will involve your legal status as a business. You must do your own thorough research, as laws change regularly. Here are some steps you may have to take (not necessarily in order) to start your roofing company, along with links to more information.
You can find more information here: How to Start a Roofing Business.
1. Plan your roofing business before you start it.
Make sure you research the competition in your area, decide the services you plan to offer, figure out startup costs, decide how you will keep records, manage employees, etc. You will save a lot of headaches in the future if you take time to create a solid business plan and properly structure your business before trying to sign up new customers.
2. Register your roofing business name.
You will need to register your business name. This is usually called a DBA (Doing Business As) or a Fictitious Name. Make sure you research your business name carefully to make sure it is not trademarked, or used by any other businesses in your area. Think long-term and choose a name that will help build a strong brand for your roofing company.
If you need help selecting a name for your roofing business:
Choosing a Roofing Company Name
3. Select your business structure.
You will need to decide on a business entity when registering. Sole-proprietor, LLC, Partnership, Corporation, etc. Sole-proprietor, Partnerships and LLC’s are the most common entities for smaller roofing contractors. Find out more here: Roofing Company Business Structure
4. Register your business.
Each state has different requirements to register a business. Find out about your location here: Register a Roofing Business
5. Open a Business Checking Account.
You will need to open a separate bank account for your roofing business with your new business name. A business account is important to help you keep accurate records.
6. Find out about taxes and hire an accountant.
You may possibly want to file your own taxes if you are a small roofing company. As you grow, it will be easier to hire an accountant do the work. Proper accounting is critical in order to report income properly and avoid over/underpaying taxes. Check with your state’s tax organization to find out the tax requirements for businesses. You will also need to pay federal taxes. More info about federal taxes here:
7. Get Liability Insurance.
Liability insurance plays a critical role in protecting you as a contractor.
We work with ContractorsLiability.com because they’re the one-stop-shop for General Liability insurance and are able to get online quotes in all 50 states. Plus, their expertise means they’re fast when it comes to getting the right bond and liability coverage. Roofers need to win the job and stay protected at an affordable price. Learn more >
8. Get Roofing Software.
Roofing software will streamline your business before you even start, giving you visibility and control over all your leads, sales, jobs, and tasks from a single program to get your company on the fast track toward growth.
You’ll also be able to create estimates, place material orders, automate the boring (but necessary) stuff, empowering you and your team to finish jobs on time and on budget. Try JobNimbus for Free!
9. Register as a Contractor.
Many (but not all) states will require roofing contractors to have licensing and/or registration.
10. Worker’s Compensation.
You will need Worker’s Compensation if you have any employees. Find out more>
11. Get Health Insurance.
Since you will be self-employed, you will need your own health insurance. If you have employees, you will need a plan that will include their health needs also.
12. Set up a Website.
A website is the home base for your roofing business, and where all online marketing will be directed. A website is one of the first things a potential customer will look for when researching your company.
13. Set up social media accounts.
You should have at least one social media account for your roofing business that you will actively maintain. Facebook and Instagram are top choices. Don’t just create the account and let it stay dormant. Try to post a few times a month minimum so potential customers know your business is active.
14. City License.
You may be required to obtain a license to operate your roofing business in a particular locale, whether you are a resident, or not.
15. Permits.
Depending on the locale, you may need to apply for permits before commencing certain types of roofing jobs.
16. Building Code and Inspections.
You must be aware of building codes for particular jobs, and may be subject to inspections.
17. OSHA.
Depending on how many employees you have, you may need to follow OSHA regulations.
18. Financing.
If your startup budget is high, you may need to apply for financing to help pay for equipment.
19. Marketing.
To get your roofing business going, you may need to use multiple marketing techniques including having a website, yard signs, social media advertising, and more. Find out some helpful roofing advertising tips here: Roofing Marketing Ideas