12/1/21, 10:29 PM 10 Steps to Building a Construction Startup

CONSTRUCTION

PROJECTS

10 Steps to Building a Construction Startup

BY
RACHEL BURGER
Updated on November 20, 2019

Before opening a new construction business, it is important to understand the amount of

preparation and work that is involved. Establishing a new business of any kind is never
easy, and there are always things to consider that may or may not be at the forefront of
one's mind, even an experienced entrepreneur. Are you ready to launch your construction
startup? Here are 10 things that should be at the foundation of your plans.

01 Put Together a Solid Business Plan

Make sure your business plan is solid.

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Your business plan should establish the goals of your construction business. It should
include detailed plans for every stage involved in the process along with the timeframe and
funding you will need to meet each of your goals. Include anything you believe relates to
the smooth operation of your business. Your business plan needs to be thorough since you
will need to supply copies of your plan to financial institutions when attempting to borrow
funds.

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Advertise

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Advertise

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02 Find a Good Home Base for Your Startup

David Sacks / Getty Images

While many construction startups begin in the owners’ homes, eventually you will want to
move into more official business premises to legitimize the business. The property you
choose as a home base will need to have adequate office and storage space since you will
likely be storing equipment and tools onsite. The location you choose should also have
ample space for parking vehicles used in the business. 

03 Get Your Legal Ducks in a Row

Lawyer showing small business owner where to sign documents of incorporation.
Westend61 / Getty Images

The best way to establish your business as a professional operation and to instill
confidence in it is to show that you are organized, efficient, and compliant with all relevant
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regulations, laws, and standards. Be certain of all the certifications, licenses, permits, and

registrations that are mandatory for the business. These vary by state, city, and locality, so
do your homework. Hire a lawyer if necessary. 

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04 Understand Your Tax Requirements

Row of cardboard houses on top of dollar bills showing the cost of doing business.
Unfortunately, it costs money to run a business.
carebott // Getty Images

Hire an accountant and iron out what documentation you will need to have on file for your
deductions. Audits are not common, but they do happen, so you want to be prepared and
you want your books to be accurate. 

05 Understand Your Insurance Responsibilities

Insurance agent looking at project blueprints before writing coverage for the project.
Pattanaphong Khuankaew / EyeEm / Getty Images

Arrange a meeting with an insurance agent and talk with him or her about the coverages
required for your business. You need to protect not just business assets, but also yourself
should work-related injuries, personal liabilities, or damage to clients' property occurs. Both
you and your business need to be fully covered.

06 Secure Your Financing

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06 Secure Your Financing

Close-up of paper showing the interest rate for a small business loan.
Glow Images, Inc / Getty Images

You will need to purchase, rent, or lease equipment, tools, and vehicles to get your
business started. You will also need to pay your bills, invest in advertising, and meet payroll.
You will need to secure funds before you bid on your first contract, so apply for financing
early on. 

07 Network With Suppliers, Business Associates, and Other

Contractors
Contractor shaking hands and building a networking with an engineer on a job site.
Network, network, network. It'll pay off.
Paul Bradbury // Getty Images

Open accounts with several suppliers and establish credit with them. You will need to have
a good relationship with other contractors so you have people to call upon to help you
complete jobs you either cannot finish yourself or don't have the time to complete within
the deadline. You will also need to establish good relationships with industry professionals,
including building inspectors.  

08 Decide Whether to Hire Employees or Contractors

A group of construction workers eating lunch at construction site
Caiaimage/Agnieszka Olek/Caiaimage/Getty Images 

Will you keep full-time staff or simply hire contractors when you need them? There are
greater flexibility and lower cost involved with dealing with contractors since you don't
have to pay benefits (in most cases) or continue providing a salary when business is slow.
At a minimum, though, you might consider having a full-time assistant whom you can train
to know all the ins and outs of your business and keep things running smoothly. People also
appreciate hearing a familiar voice when they call your place of business. 

09 Establish an Advertising and Marketing Budget

A blank advertising billboard on the side of a building on a downtown street.
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Travelpix Ltd / Getty Images

You might decide that your advertising needs are as simple as signage for your job sites.
You might also decide you need more—radio, TV, and online marketing, like a website and
blog. You will also want to create a logo to establish your brand. Other recommended
promotional items include business cards, brochures, and, eventually, a business portfolio.
Whatever you do, don't skimp on the marketing. Allocate more than you think you'll need for
it. 

10 Allocate Funds for Construction Software

Construction software on a smartphone may help some small businesses.
Construction software is a worthwhile investment.
Mareen Fischinger // Getty Images

Don't forget to allocate some funds for construction management software to run your
business, as this will allow you to streamline and automate various processes. The right
software solutions can eliminate hours' worth of work per project, even per day. Here are
some of the best construction accounting software options to choose from.

Construction worker using laptop at Construction management software helps

construction site you complete jobs faster

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