You know
the trade.
Now own it.

LLC in most cases — it separates your personal liability from the business. S-corp election later if your income justifies it. File in your state; takes 1–3 days online.

General liability ($1M/$2M) is non-negotiable — most GCs and homeowners require it. Add a commercial vehicle policy on any truck you use for work. Workers comp once you hire.

Your journeyman or master license should already be active — check it's in your name, not your employer's. Some states require a separate contractor license, distinct from a trade license.

Separate business finances from day one. Makes bookkeeping, taxes, and proving your business is legit dramatically easier. Most banks can do this in an afternoon.

Don't wing it. Know your break-even hourly rate (truck + insurance + your pay + materials markup). T&M or flat rate — both work, but you need your floor before you quote.

Referrals from former clients (if allowed), a Google Business Profile (free, ~2 hours), Nextdoor, and a simple $500 Facebook campaign in your ZIP. You don't need a website on day one.

Jobber or Housecall Pro (~$49/mo) handles scheduling, invoicing, and customer records. QuickBooks Simple Start (~$30/mo) for books. That's ~$80/month to run a professional operation.