Newbie zoning, permits, and general Qs

[tobias_2004]

Hey all, just joining the community and had a few questions. I have been working at a repair shop for a while, feel comfortable doing repairs as well as waiting on multiple customers at a time, for example feel like I can handle repairing 6-8 vehicles at a time plus calling ins. co.(which has happened).

I'm very eager about starting up my own shop, using the knowledge I have now, but do not have all of the little details figured out so if you all could help me out with a few questions! Thanks

1. Zoning, I know we have fought this numerous times when trying to expand or shop. We have ran into problems such as trailer based sign being to large, ways around non-permanent structure red tape, attention getting items, not allowed to have a tent. Just general things.

2. Permits. What exactly do I need. I know I need to get ahold of the city to make sure they allow it and to get the permit I need, but what exactly am I asking them for/about?

3. Paperwork. Now I've got the work part of the business down, hows about the paperwork? Such as, easiest program to enter into glass networks? Most cost efficient. And, like I said I no little about this side, but how does it work? I'll get the invoice, call it into the ins. co. then wait for their fax, verify everything, enter into a glass program (eg. e-Direct), and then wait for a check?

Sorry to be so lengthy but I feel like I've got one shot at this, and basically do, so I want to make sure I get it right the first time, or at least to give me the best chance. When I decide to act on this business, it is going to be all out. Thanks again.

[ProView WR]

Hey Tobias welcome. If you could fill out your profile with area of service it would help us out in giving direction. All cities/states are different when it comes to the first two questions as to what permits and zoning laws. Also the business structure you choose may/maynot have bearing on them as well.

[tobias_2004]

Sorry took so long to reply to this post, out of state for a while. Well my plan is to try out the Carolina area. I have been scoping out some malls and shopping centers in large cities down there to check out traffic, business, and getting an idea of the people that shop there (if the people that shop there look generally if they carry full cov.)

As far as business structure? If your talking about how customers can pay? I would be leaning towards insurance as it seems to pay more, but also offering a cash option of $40, as it seems that is the general asking from what I've read.

Also I have another question, I've heard SC has the "free glass act", or where insurance companys must replace the windshield for free. Any truth to this or does anyone know what states all cover this?

Thanks!!

[ProView WR]

Originally Posted by tobias_2004

As far as business structure? If your talking about how customers can pay?...

Business structure as in Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLC etc. Different states have different regulations regarding the structure of the business. From your response I am guessing you will be a proprietorship. Do a google search on it.

[tobias_2004]

Just checked up on the Proprietorship, as well as LLC, and it seems like a LLC would be best, as I would like to separate myself from the business. What route would you recommend to start as?

[grouselab]

Hey Tobias2004.. Please fill out your profile!!!!!!!!! and you will get more responds...

[ProView WR]

Originally Posted by grouselab

Hey Tobias2004.. Please fill out your profile!!!!!!!!! and you will get more responds...

Ditto.

Tobias go spend a few hours at Barnes n Noble and look at the Nolo books on starting a business. They have a book for each different business structure and the state requirements.