What are some good resources, suggestions, and guidelines for starting a small computer repair business?

I've been toying with the idea of starting a small computer repair business but I have no idea where to begin, and most of the successful shops around here don't like you poking around asking questions about how they run their shop to keep it up and running. If it helps, I am currently living in Mississippi if anyone happens to know their specific laws.

Also, I have years of experience but nothing on paper such as an A+ or Network+ certification, is this honestly going to cause problems with a venture like this?

I'm asking for serious answers, thank you.

Can you work on both Mac's and PC's or just PC's...what is your speciality? Is it hardware/software or networking? Pin point what specific things you can do that your competition can't and you'll have a leg up!

Also, check out your local phone book. Browse through the appropriate section that deals with computer repairs. Take a look at the ads...try to see if you can find a common denominator that everyone else is offering, such as what they do or don't do and compare that to what you can do or are at least willing to offer.

Look at what hours they operate under and ask you're self if over 1/2 of the companies worked Monday-Friday, how would you feel about working a few hours on Saturday and/or Sunday?

Does your competition go to the customer's home? If not, there's your Unique Selling Point (USP) that should help get your company noticed. Also, how are you going to advertise? Radio, TV, Direct Mail, Online???

Do you have a web site? How much can you afford to advertise? I'm assuming that you would only do PC/computer repair in and around your city of location. If so, look into advertising locally via cable TV or any local stations.

As for being 'certified', that would depend on the type of business you own. If you work out of your house, and can start getting business via 'word of mouth', then let your knowledge dictate what you do and not what isn't on paper.


Just some ideas to throw out there for you to think of..


Hope this helps?



RME, Jr.

The idea you have is very great and i must say that you are taking bold step in accomplishing it.

Before you start the following would help you out:-
1. You must at least get your A+ certification, at least that would prove to your clients that you have both the technical and certification know how

2. You need to read up on marketing and brush up on your business skills such as accounting and the rest

3. You need alot of patiences.

4. Be you and realise that for every business time is all we have so use it wisely.

I've been a computer consultant for many years and have recently started my own tech support company ----

I would say that the certifications are only important if you do not have experience. Since you have experience, I honestly don't think the certs matter. Because outside of our industry (IT), who knows what an A+ certification is?

I don't know if you've considered this, but you may want to pick a focus for your company. For instance...providing support and repair to small businesses - or homes and small businesses, etc. Most of the small business people I know can't find the computer support and/or repair they need, so it is a nice market. And not one of them has ever asked me if I have a certification.

Good luck! I hope you have a thriving business!