Tips For Starting A Construction Site Cleanup Business
Posted on: 23 October 2015
A construction crew boss or general contractor knows that the key to a safe and productive jobsite is a clean jobsite. This is why many crews now bring in outside site cleanup contractors to make sure everything is put into order each day. If you know your way around a building site and have an entrepreneurial spirit, starting your own cleanup business may be your calling. The following tips can help you get started.
Tip #1: Learn Licensing Requirements
You will likely need a business license to operate in your state or municipality. You may also need a sales tax license or identification number if your state levies a sales tax on services. Contact your county clerk to find out the specific requirements for your city, county, and state. You also need to contact the IRS and get an employer identification number, along with employment tax information for any employees you hire.
Tip #2: Set Up Waste Removal Partnerships
If you plan to work on big jobsites, you will need more than just a truck to haul away the garbage and scrap. Contact local dumpster rental companies and get bids. Look for a company that provides roll off dumpsters in a variety of sizes, so you can order the right one to match your client's needs. If you plan on recycling and scrapping from the sites, make sure the dumpster company provides recycling containers as well. Lumber, concrete, and metal are just a few items that you can recycle or sell for scrap, which can lower your dump fees and maybe even earn you a little bit more money. Contact a dumpster rental company like Metropolis Disposal to learn more.
Tip #3: Set Your Prices
How you set up fees depends on what is common in your area. You may need to bid a set fee on the job, or you may charge an hourly or per pound rate. The next step is to figure out your average cost. Figure your overhead, such as dumpster rental, disposal fees, wages, and equipment rentals. Then, determine your profit percentage and add this onto the base overhead fee. This will ensure you set a price that is competitive but still allows you to earn a living.
Tip #4: Pitch Your Services
You can start pitching your services only after the basic framework for your business, as detailed above, is in place. Begin by networking with those in the construction business that you already know. Contact local builders and contractors, as well. Provide them with a brochure that details your services and fee schedules, or offer free quotes if you set your fees on a per project basis. It's also a good idea to have a website with all the key details. People may not hang onto a brochure, but they will keep a business card with a web address. If you do your job well, word will spread and soon you will have more customers than you can handle.
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