Last week iDare had a visitor called Steve, who had suffered an illness that affected his spine and left him in a wheelchair. Steve has since gone on to be a UK champion at table tennis and leads a full and active life, but also before his illness, he was a painter and decorator running his own successful business, and this is what I wanted to know about.

My dad is a Painter and Decorator and I want to take on the business from him eventually, so I spoke with Steve about what its like to have a business and what I need to think about if I want to set myself up as a Painter and Decorator.

Tips and Tricks:

Advertising – Initially you may need to produce some business cards and leaflets that you can use and hand out to people, however once you are established “word of mouth” is going to be the main source of advertising.

Main items you will need are:

·Overalls - at least 3 pairs (one pair to wear, one to wash, and one to dry).

·Clean Dust Sheets for every job – it shows the client you care about your equipment and so will take care with their house.

·Fresh brushes and rollers – again shows clients you care about your equipment and are serious about your work. Also helps to get a better finish.

Taxes – You are liable for your own taxes.

Your daily rate of about £120 - £150 per day, use an app like “Symplex D books”, remember to keep all receipts, daily, weekly and monthly records. You will need to get an accountant to help with the books.

You will need, business insurance - up to half a million liability insurance, because if you are working in someone’s home, and something happens!

Your clients should pay in advance for materials for the job you are doing, then once you have finished, they will pay for your time to do the job.

Paint Brands – There are loads of paint brands these days but some of the better ones to use are Glidden, Dulux, Johnsons

Other tips:

Look on line for help to start a small business, always maintain high quality of work and remember the customer is always right. If you get big jobs, draft in other people to help you, but ensure you maintain high standards. Get a good hoover, for clean-up (Henry Hover is good). Always stick to the to the time frame, and be realistic when quoting a job. Be aware of wires and electrical leads, move them or tape them down.

When you start a job, always remember:

Wet and dry sandpaper – preparation is everything – plastic shoe covers. When your customer invites you in always put a dust sheet down.

Measure wallpaper correctly (the right number) – measure twice, cut once.

And finally always make sure you clean up after you have finished a job…that customer will help you get your next job.