Mobile windshield chip repair business

Individual drivers, car dealerships, used car lots, fleet managers and rental companies. Some insurers cover repairs with little or no deductible.

Flat price per chip repair, often with a lower price for each extra chip on the same vehicle. Fleet and dealer accounts bring repeat work.

• Steady hands and patience
• Learning the repair technique through training
• Friendly, clear customer service

• General liability insurance, and check whether it covers work on customers' vehicles
• Not every chip is repairable, so be clear with customers about what you can and cannot fix
• Check your city or county for any business license requirement
• Working outdoors in heat, cold and rain, since resin cures best in the right conditions

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the repair kit and training you choose and how you set up your vehicle. These are estimates, so price out your kit, training and insurance before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many hours you work and how many customers you win. The idea assumes at least about 8 hours a week. Revenue is not profit, so subtract your costs.

Things to check: general liability insurance, including whether it covers work on customers' vehicles, and whether your city or county requires a business license. Also be clear with customers that not every chip is repairable.