Home Computer services business

[Mrs_Pegasus]

My DH and I regularly helps friends and family with with their home computers.  It can range from tidying them up, updating hardware, software installation etc.  We never charge for the service but it has highlighted that there is a niche in the market in this kind of service in our area.  We live in rural location and nearest similar service is over 25 miles away. 

What would we need to take into consideration if we were to start up a business offering this type of service.  I am qualified in finance so happy with that end of things but I am interested to learn about liability insurance, guranteeing the work, pricing etc.  Can anyone help or point us in the right direction to at least see if the business would work.  Neither of us would give up our 'day' jobs and wouldnt rely on the income in the early days.

[Buenchico]

To get some ideas about pricing, check out what the main player charges by going to www.pcworld.co.uk (Click on services and support). Here you'll find, for example, that PC World charge �79.99 to install a network in your home. They also charge a whacking �29.99 to install a new modem, in-store. (To be fair, this charge does include an unlimited number of upgrades purchased on the same day). Take these as your base figures and knock off at least a third to make your figures competitive. (Most independent computer shops charge �10-�20 to install a modem. Some even do it for free, probably because they charge you more to buy it in the first place).

For insurance, check under "Insurance - Commercial, Property & Liability" in Yellow Pages and make a minimum of half a dozen calls. (You'll probably get lots of different 'information' but it's a starting point).

Guarantees shouldn't be too much of a problem. A brief statement printed on the back of your invoices should suffice. ("Unless otherwise stated, all work completed is guaranteed for a minimum of 2 years. All parts fitted (except 'consumables') are guaranteed for the same period"). Where there are exceptions make sure that this is put in writing. ("While we guarantee that your PC is now virus free, there may be problems, caused by the virus whicht we removed, which have yet to become apparent. The nature of virus removal means that we are unable to guarantee that damage has not occurred to the registry or files on your computer prior to the removal of the virus").

Remember, if you work at home (as opposed to from home - like a plumber) you might need to look at obtaining planning permission for business use of your home. This could result in you having to pay business rates as well as council tax (although these canbe offset against income tax by renting space in your house to the business).

Hoping this helps,

Chris

[Mrs_Pegasus]

Thank you very much, very informative answer.

Very much appreciated.