back in the early 90's me and another guy were doing car detailing on saterdays, we would just do 2 cars and we would pocket about 100 dollars each after expenses.a couple hours each car. theres a guy down the street from me that hires 2 kids about 20 years old and cleans maybe 10 cars a day for an average of maybe 150 each and there must be a discount for the city police cars and one of the dealerships in the area. hes been doing it for a few years now.
Bill, I,d say go fot it. Wish I,d done something on my own 35 years ago instead of being someone elses slave all this time. Am currently looking for someone to replace some ceilings in this old house. Also I know for a fact there is good money in small engine repair; and you most likely already own all the tools you,d need. Cal P.
Bill,
As is my norm around here, I will play devils advocate. I think that the idea of a handymans service is great. BUT, make sure you have insurance that covers you for EVERYTHING you do. Also make sure you don't touch items that you need a license for, such as electrical, plumbing, and (new this year) some aspects of heating.
Doing anything nowadays without the proper license or insurance is just asking for trouble. Also, take pictures of what you do, so that you have proof of how you left it. That way, two months down the road (after the homeowner has tinkered with it and messed it up) you will have proof of what you did.
Another new law that passed this last year is workers comp related. If you are self employed and working directly for a homeowner you don't need it. BUT, if you are "subcontracted" by another building trades business, you (or they) may be required to cover you with workers comp. For a sole proprietor in NH the base cost of workers comp on yourself is $14,400. I was never told of this law by the insurance company. I found out because I was a "subcontractor" on a job where the general contractor was insurance audited. Trust me its a big fine if you break that law and get caught. Close to 2 grand per day in violation!`
The only loophole I know of at this time is to do everything via quote... do no work "by the hour" as a "subcontractor". I doubt that "loophole" will be open much longer though.
In short, cover your a$$ at all times.
Best of luck to you.
Craig
Craig's points are valid...just be sure you have the laws covered. I know in my Real Estate business here I am always being asked by clients if I know of some that can do small jobs. Put your name and cards out to all the local Realtors I am sure they would help.
Go for it!
