Local sprinkler and fire suppression parts counter

Fire sprinkler installers, mechanical and building contractors, and fire protection service companies in your region.

You buy from manufacturers or wholesalers and sell at a markup. Contractors with trade accounts place repeat orders, and you can add delivery fees for urgent or large orders.

• Reading parts lists and specifications
• Inventory and stock control
• Building trade relationships

• Components usually need to be listed or approved for fire protection use (check ULC/cUL requirements and your provincial fire code)
• Stock ties up a lot of cash, so start with fast-moving items
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance
• Check municipal zoning and business licence rules for your unit
• Trade accounts can pay slowly, so set credit limits
• Some contractors may be loyal to larger distributors

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on your unit and how much stock you carry, such as sprinkler heads, valves, fittings, hangers and pipe. Starting with fast-moving items can help limit the cash tied up.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on your region, stock range and how many installers and contractors buy from you. These are estimates only, and trade accounts can pay slowly, so check credit limits.

Check whether components need to be listed or approved for fire protection use, including ULC/cUL requirements and your provincial fire code. Also check commercial general liability and product liability insurance, and municipal zoning and business licence rules for your unit.