Starting up part time.

[lotus_esprit_s1]

I own an industrial unit on local industrial estate which I bought for use for my own projects however I am always being asked to do welding and odd repairs which I have shied away from however I am considering whether it is worth my while starting up part time in addition to my day job.

As I already own the unit outright and is fully equipped with 25 years worth of tool purchasing I don’t really have a lot to loose but haven’t a clue what I would need to start up as far as insurance and qualifications. I was coded in MIG and stainless / alloy tig three years ago if that helps. can anyone offer any pointers?

 

[Pete.]

can anyone offer any pointers?

Don't work cheap.

 

[Kayos]

Get good insurance
Double the figure you think you should charge
Learn to say no

Other than that, what could possibly go wrong?

 

[Wildefalcon]

Don't design anything, just follow instructions.

 

[steveo3002]

might find alot of the folk wanting stuff done will disappear when they realise you wont do it for a tenner

 

[RonA]

The number of your ‘friends’ will be inversely proportional to the price you charge.
RonA

 

[johnik]

I did it about 15 years ago, yes it was hard at the start, staring at the walls wondering when the next job would come in but in the end it worked out well, i made enough money and enjoyed nearly every moment of it.
it is character building, you will get lots of people ringing you offering "services" you dont need, learn to say no, get a good quality kettle and buy tea bags in bulk

 

[colnerov]

Hi, It could change the rateable value of the unit.

Colin

 

[slim_boy_fat]

Sounds like you're planning continuing with your day job? If so, take on work which you'll enjoy doing and not that which'll become a chore.

 

[Ali]

Don't design anything, just follow instructions.

Curious why?

 

[Barking Mat]

Curious why?

If it fails, it's your fault.

 

[Bryan Williams]

Try to get on as a registered contractor for United utilities or equivalent in your area.
Licence to print money.

 

[brightspark]

might find alot of the folk wanting stuff done will disappear when they realise you wont do it for a tenner

people think that im retired as im nearly 67 and still work . sadly they think il do jobs cheap not a bloody chance its the same rate as all the other electricians are charging . got all of my overheads and tax to pay still . if your so called friends disapear thats good they were only your friend when you have something to offer and never do jack sh it for u back in return

 

[winchman]

Som excellent advice its quite spiriting what you need to charge once you add the overheads up

 

[Dilkris]

Nothing to do with your business start up (sorry), but are you rebuilding or own a Series 1 Esprit...??? (I am rebuilding a 73TCS)

 

[RonA]

Nothing to do with your business start up (sorry), but are you rebuilding or own a Series 1 Esprit...??? (I am rebuilding a 73TCS)

And what is your back up car. I owned an Elan +2 once RonA

 

[Dilkris]

And what is your back up car. I owned an Elan +2 once

Sensible cars......