| You need to check with your city to see what is required. Here in Texas, all I needed to get started was a DBA (doing business as) certificate that cost me $6 and is good for 10 years. You also need to check with your state to see if you are required to collect sales tax. Usually if it is a straight service business and you sell no products, you don't have to worry about sales tax but some states do require it. Better to be on the safe side.
I believe you do have to use a water containment system in California if the amount of water you are using will reach any storm drains. Another option is using Optimum No Rinse Wash. You only need a gallon of water per car and there is no run-off to worry about.
Definitely call around on insurance, prices are all over the map. Carry at least $250,000 coverage and make sure it protects you not only if you damage a customer's car but if someone trips over your equipment or slips in water around the car you are cleaning.
I agree with bobalude about your current boss's customers. Not only will it make him mad but you also risk having his customers think poorly of you if they like his work and then you'll never get their business. |