Start an ironing service... official MoneySavingExpert.com discussion

Trentenders

lincroft1710 wrote: »

The post two before yours would suggest that public liability insurance would be a good idea

...but it probably wouldn't cover liability for damage the clothes.

Dayo007

Hi eveyone

My daughter is getting ready to start her home ironing business. Biggest problem so far has been finding reasonable insurance cover for her little van.

Got a quote from Direct Line and gave her occupation as "cleaner"; checked with them by phone and they confirmed that "cleaner" is the closest occupation they have. Obviously she'll be collecting and delivering clothes to and from her clients homes. Does she need goods in transit cover? We don't think Public Liability Insurance would be essential, but she would like to get cover for other peoples clothes if possible.

Any thoughts, leads or clues on this would be gratefully received. Also any recommendations for her vehicle cover as we're a little uncomfortable calling her a cleaner when her van will clearly say "ironing" big and bold on the sides!

Many thanks

thehotiron

Trentenders said:

lincroft1710 wrote: »

The post two before yours would suggest that public liability insurance would be a good idea

...but it probably wouldn't cover liability for damage the clothes.

We've been running an ironing company for almost a decade and I can confirm public liability insurance (PLI) doesn't cover damages to clothes, some may advertise this but we've yet to find a company who will quote.  In fact, when you're ironing from your own home then there is little need for it PLI as you're not working amongst the public.  A customer is unlikely to trip on your ironing lead or have their property damaged when you hand over the bag.

Personally I think your biggest risk is having a car full of clothes and being involved in an accident, especially one that involves fire.  The cost of replacing damaged goods increases as you become busier and therefore the need for items to be insured during transit increases.  

If you understand the risk then you can do what makes you sleep easier at night.

One tip I'd recommend is to purchase a very good steam generator, we use a Philips because it automatically adjusts the plate heat and uses mostly steam to remove creases.  This will reduce the chance of a burn to zero.  Your only problem then is stains caused by dirt from your iron or accidental spillage.  I'm pleased to say this hasn't happened to us too often but when it has a little stain remover has always solved the problem.

Good luck

savvymum1

Hi everyone, 
I would really like to start a ironing business from home but would love some feedback please on if you think in this current financial climate there is a demand. I have insurance and a DBS from my previous job. I would look to using eco friendly products and have a 24 and 48 hour turnaround and pick up and deliver. I'm totally lost on how to charge! Is per item better or a set price for a certain amount of items? My mum used a ironing service for years but they would make the beds too. Any advice on how to make this work would be greatly appreciated. Thank you ☺️

DCFC79

savvymum1 said:

Hi everyone, 
I would really like to start a ironing business from home but would love some feedback please on if you think in this current financial climate there is a demand. I have insurance and a DBS from my previous job. I would look to using eco friendly products and have a 24 and 48 hour turnaround and pick up and deliver. I'm totally lost on how to charge! Is per item better or a set price for a certain amount of items? My mum used a ironing service for years but they would make the beds too. Any advice on how to make this work would be greatly appreciated. Thank you ☺️

Whether it can work or not is dependant on how many like minded businesses there are in your area but it will depend on what you offer. 

Go onto Facebook and look for ironing services or go on the website near you and ask them what they charge.

The pick up and deliver option is good as not everyone will have time to go and drop it off or collect, also stating you use eco friendly products is also another good selling point.

You need a good name too.