Home Standby Generator Installer

Sell and install whole-house standby generators, working with licensed electricians and gas fitters.

Startup cost$10k to $50k
Monthly revenue$8k to $40k
Time needed30+ h/week
First incomeMonths
  • $10k-50k
  • Full-time
  • Out and about
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.

Official data

3,878 US businesses with employees in this field, -11.7% in a year

NAICS 444210 “Outdoor power equipment stores”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.

What it is

Quoting, selling and installing permanent backup generators with transfer switches for homes and small businesses, plus ongoing maintenance plans.

Your first three steps

  1. Check your state's contractor and electrical licensing rules, and decide whether you hold the license or partner with a licensed electrician and gas fitter
  2. Apply to become an authorized dealer or installer with one or two generator brands
  3. Build a simple quote process and offer free site assessments to homeowners in your area
Who pays

Homeowners in outage-prone areas, small business owners and rural property owners who want automatic backup power.

How it makes money

Profit on the generator and install job, plus recurring yearly maintenance plans and repair calls.

Skills that help
  • Electrical or mechanical trade experience
  • Estimating and quoting
  • Sales and customer service
  • Managing permits and subcontractors
Watch out for
  • State or local contractor, electrical and gas-fitting licenses, which vary a lot, so check your licensing board
  • Permits and inspections for electrical and fuel line work
  • General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire
  • Local rules on noise, placement and setbacks, plus HOA restrictions
  • Long lead times on equipment and deposits you may need to hold for orders

🔒 Full research report for US

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start a standby generator installation business?

Startup costs are typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on your tools, vehicle and how you handle equipment orders. These are estimates. Check supplier deposits and long lead times when planning your budget.

Do I need a license to install standby generators?

Check your licensing board. State or local contractor, electrical and gas-fitting licenses vary a lot. Also check permits and inspections for electrical and fuel line work, local rules on noise, placement and setbacks, HOA restrictions, and insurance.

How much can a standby generator installer earn?

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on how many installs and maintenance plans you secure. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit, and the work typically takes at least 30 hours a week.

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