Hi Matty,
If you have got it in you to be your own boss and have the drive, passion and determination to succeed then go for it!
I have been running my business as a sole trader for 15 months now and I will be honest, it has been bloody hard work, but the rewards when you get happy customers and recommendations is a great buzz!
Get yourself a van and get it sign written, I have had numerous calls and work from local customers who have simply walked passed or seen my van in the supermarket car park and jotted the number down!
Also magnet business cards are great, I put one on every boiler I service/install (generally over previous heat engineers stickers!), if it's general plumbing I leave one on there fridge!
Set up a Facebook page and keep on top of it, lots of pics and get customers to give reviews!
Do yourself a website (Godaddy are ok and easy to use but there are lots more out there), this gives potential customers somewhere to check you and your work out before contacting you.
I signed up to Rated People when I started and TBH the best thing I got out of them was the note pad and pen!!
My area (Croydon) is saturated with plumbing and heating companies so it has been tough competing, but if you're good, punctual, reliable and reasonably priced then you gain respect and then the famous word of mouth wild fire starts.......I would say 90% of my work comes from reccomendations and that means you are doing something right!
Don't be a stereo type plumber who turns up late, charges to much and doesn't consider the customer or there needs! Mud sticks and in an already tough trade it would be suicidal!
Get GSR and put your GS number on your cards/van, I've had customers say they checked me out on gas safe website before they called me, which is great to know that there are some safety conscious people out there!!
Liability insurance is a must and I think mine is around ÂŁ700 - ÂŁ800pa
Contact local building companies, letting agents, tilers, and anyone that may need the number of a good plumber incase they need to call on you at the drop of a hat.....that will be your foot in the door!
Most importantly save some money for the lovely TAX MAN!!
Save some dosh:
Van - Tax and Insurance, running costs, fuel, servicing etc.
Company - Liability insurance, Mobile, Email and Website costs, Accountant fees, Advertising, T-shirts overalls, Tools etc.
Rainy day, remember no work no money, I had an op recently and put me out for 3 1/2 weeks, massive blow financially!!
The hardest part is getting your name out there, but when it is you will reap the rewards!!
Sorry for waffling on a bit
Good luck
Also keep an eye on this site, lots of great advice and has been a great help for me if ever I have been unsure of something.......and the banter is brilliant!!