INVICTUS UTILITIES · BUSINESS ESSENTIALS

Starting a business

Before you open the doors, there are a few essentials worth sorting out. We'll help you work through them in an order that makes sense for your business.

Build your starting checklist ↓

GETTING READY

There's plenty to think about before opening day.

Perhaps you've found the right premises but haven't checked the electricity supply. Or the card machine is sorted, yet broadband installation is still weeks away. These are the details that can cause trouble when they're left until the last minute.

Start with what your business actually needs. You won't necessarily need every service on this list, and an arrangement already in place may be perfectly suitable.

A PRACTICAL STARTING POINT

Make a checklist for your business

Choose the nearest match. You can tick off tasks as you go. The checklist stays in this browser page and doesn't send your answers to us.

What sort of business are you setting up?

0 tasks completed

Premises and responsibilitiesFind out which supplies are already connected, who holds each account and whether you need permission for any changes.

Electricity and gasCheck the meters, the current supplier, likely use and when you need services to be ready.

Business waterAsk who supplies the premises and whether you need to register a new occupier or open an account.

Broadband and telephonePlan around installation lead times, coverage, the number of people using the service and your backup options.

Card payments and tillsConsider where customers will pay, your likely transaction volumes and the full contract costs.

Commercial wasteArrange lawful collection for the waste your business produces and keep the right documentation.

Your selection stays on this page. Printing uses your browser’s print options; no account or upload is needed.

DON'T LEAVE IT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE

Three things worth checking early

Check what's already connected

Ask the landlord, agent or previous occupier about existing meters, connections and accounts. Never assume everything transfers automatically.

Allow time to get connected

New broadband lines, payment terminals and other services can involve installation, verification or waiting periods. Plan for the date you actually need them.

Read the full agreement

Look beyond a headline monthly price. Contract length, standing charges, equipment, support and cancellation terms all deserve attention.

PLAN AHEAD

When should you arrange everything?

There is no universal installation timetable. Use these stages to avoid leaving essential services until opening day, and confirm lead times with each provider.

Before committing to premises

Find out what is already there

Check existing meters, connection capacity, broadband availability, lease terms and which party is responsible for arranging or paying for services.

Once your opening date takes shape

Get the important enquiries under way

Check supplier requirements, quotations, identity checks, installation dates and contract terms. Allow extra time where physical work may be required.

Before your first customer arrives

Test how everything works together

Confirm supplies are active, payment equipment works, staff can connect, and you know how to report a fault. Keep essential account details accessible.

This checklist is general planning guidance, not a list of every legal requirement for your business. Requirements vary with your premises, activity and location.

LEARN MORE

Helpful reading before you get started

Our Knowledge Centre explains everyday business decisions in more detail.

Visit the Knowledge Centre →

Have a question about your business?

Tell us what you're planning and which services you'd like to understand. You don't need to have all the answers yet.

Contact Invictus Utilities →