Starting a pressure washing business in Utah does not require a specific license for pressure washing. However, there are several essential requirements you must fulfill to operate your business legally and protect yourself from potential liabilities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps to get your pressure washing business up and running in Utah.
Business Registration
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Entity Registration: Register your business entity with the Utah Division of Corporations (corporations.utah.gov). You can choose from various business structures, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation, depending on your needs and preferences.
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Employer Identification Number (EIN): Obtain an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov). This unique number is required for tax purposes and to open a business bank account.
Insurance Requirements
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General Liability Insurance: Obtain a General Liability Insurance Certificate with a minimum coverage of $100,000 for each incident and $300,000 in total. The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) must be listed as the certificate holder.
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Workers Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, you must obtain a certificate of workers compensation insurance with DOPL as the certificate holder. If you do not have employees, you can obtain a Workers Compensation Coverage Waiver from the Utah Labor Commission.
Technical Specifications
- Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act Rule: This rule covers various construction trades, including building cleaning, sanitizing, and window washing, which encompasses power washing activities. While a specific pressure washing license is not required, you must comply with the provisions outlined in this rule.
Additional Considerations
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Separate Business and Personal Finances: To protect your personal assets, it is recommended to form an LLC or incorporate your business. This will create a clear separation between your business and personal finances, reducing the risk of personal liability in case of lawsuits or other legal issues.
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Target Demographics: Focus your marketing efforts on residential and commercial clients, highlighting the benefits of pressure washing services for driveways, patios, pavers, fences, and other surfaces. This will help you establish a strong customer base and grow your business.
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Niche Services: Consider offering additional services, such as window cleaning, gutter cleaning, and bird/pigeon control, to expand your service offerings and diversify your revenue streams.
References
- Reddit Discussion on Licensed and Insured Pressure Washing
- Utah Construction Trades Licensing Act Rule
- Utah Administrative Rules for Contractors
- Reddit Discussion on Pressure Washing in Dry States
- DOPL Specialty Contractor License Application
Remember, while a specific pressure washing license is not required in Utah, it is essential to comply with the state’s business registration, insurance, and technical requirements to operate your pressure washing business legally and protect yourself from potential liabilities.