Setting up a home hair salon is an exciting opportunity for qualified hairdressers to combine their passion and skills, with the flexibility of working from home.
However, as Samantha Blues knows all too well, success requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a focus on creating a professional and welcoming space for all clients.
(You can also check out this home salon for some some serious interiors inspiration.)
Below Samantha shares her comprehensive guide - from legal compliance to client experience and beyond. She set up in 2011, so she knows a thing or two about running a successful home salon!
1. Legal Compliance
There's a lot to consider including Permits, Insurance, and Timings Planning Permission & Certificates, but if you break it down into manageable chunks it's easier to digest!
• Change of Use: Before converting part of your home into a salon, you must check with your local council if you need planning permission. This is especially important if you’re making structural changes, such as installing a backwash, wash basin or additional plumbing.
Some councils may require a change of use application, while others may allow it under permitted development rights. Approval can take several weeks or even months, so plan early.
• Building Regulations: If you’re making structural changes, you may need building regulation certificates to ensure the work meets safety standards. This includes proper plumbing, electrical work and fire safety measures.
• Home Insurance: Inform your home insurance provider about your plans to run a business from home. You may need to upgrade to a business insurance policy or add a business use clause to your existing policy.
Licences and Registrations
• Specialist Permits: If you plan to offer chemical treatments (e.g hair colour), you’ll need to comply with COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations. This includes proper storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals. You may also need a hazardous waste disposal permit.
• Alcohol Licence: If you want to offer clients a cheeky glass of prosecco or other alcoholic beverages, you’ll need to apply for a premises licence. This can cost between £100 and £1,900, depending on your local council.
• Business Structure: Register your business with HMRC as a sole trader, partnership, or limited company. Limited companies must also register with Companies House and file annual accounts.
Insurance Essentials
• Public Liability Insurance: Protects you against claims if a client is injured or their property is damaged during an appointment.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance: Covers legal costs and compensation if a client claims negligence or unsatisfactory service.
• Contents Insurance: Safeguards your equipment, tools, and products against theft, fire, or damage.
It's always worth talking to a specialised insurance provider for the hair and beauty provider.
2. Find Funds and Budget Well!
A big part of planning for a home salon is budgeting. Ensure that you allocate funds to setting it up. Although you'll save money on travel and hire costs, there will be outlay. Try to be realistic with your budget, making it clear what is essential to your home studio and what you can hold back on, at least initially.
Financial Planning: Accounts and Tax Compliance
Self-Accounting vs. Hiring an Accountant
• Self-Accounting: You can manage your own accounts using HMRC-approved software. This is a cost-effective option for small businesses, but does need confidence with numbers.
• Hiring an Accountant: For more complex finances, consider hiring an accountant to handle your annual tax submissions. They can help you maximise deductions and ensure compliance with tax laws.
Budgeting
• Start-Up Costs: Allocate funds for essential equipment (e.g. your styling chairs, stations, mirrors) and tools (e.g. scissors, clippers and hairdryers). Look for second-hand or refurbished items to save money.
• Ongoing Expenses: Track monthly costs like utilities, supplies, and marketing. Claim tax relief on home office expenses, such as a percentage of your rent, heating and internet bills.
3. Think About Location
Space Optimization
• Dedicated Area: Separate your salon from living spaces for professionalism.
• Client Comfort: Invest in ergonomic chairs, ambient lighting, and a relaxing décor palette. 
4. Equipment and Supplies
Brand Neutrality Tools and Equipment
• As an independent you have the freedom to choose tools based on ergonomics, durability, and personal preference, not the brand your salon or boss wants you to use.
• Invest in high-quality scissors, clippers, and hairdryers that will last for years, not months.
Must-Have Supplies
• Tools: If you want to invest in Japanese steel scissors these are in the region of £80–£300. Plus professional hairdryers, and sanitisation stations will all run into the £100s of pounds.
• Retail Stock: Offer premium products for upselling.
Suppliers
• Partner with wholesalers or join buying groups to access bulk discounts on colourants, shampoos, and styling products.
• Consider eco-friendly or sustainable products to appeal to environmentally conscious clients.
5. Build Your Brand!
Marketing: Cost-Effective Strategies
Social Media
• Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook to showcase your work. Post before-and-after photos, tutorials, and client testimonials to build your online presence.
• Leverage free scheduling tools to plan and automate your social media posts.
Google My Business: Encourage reviews to boost visibility.
Client Retention
• Loyalty Programs:
For example, offer a free treatment after every 5th appointment.
• Boutique Experience: Serve prosecco (with a premises licence) or artisanal teas to elevate the experience.
Collaborations
• Partner with micro-influencers for styled shoots.
• Host workshops (e.g., “Curly Hair Care 101”) to attract locals.
6. Tell People About It - Local SEO and Online Presence
Once you have a fabulous home studio, you have to tell people about it! Share the news on social networks and ask your friends to share it too. You could get some opening discount or offer leaflets printed and post them locally to encourage new bookings too.
Website/Landing Page
• Design a mobile-friendly website with clear service listings, pricing, and contact details. Use affordable hosting platforms to keep costs low.
• Include a booking form or link to your online booking system for convenience.
Google My Business
• Optimise your Google My Business profile with keywords like “home hair salon in [your town].” Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews to boost your local search ranking.
7. Client Experience: Payment, Parking and Hospitality
Tech Solutions
• POS Systems:
Budget: Use free apps with a paper diary.
Mid-Range: Software systems with integrated bookings and payments.
Premium: Software systesm with integrated bookings, payments and advanced client management.
Online Bookings
Software platforms can also automate reminders and reduce no-shows, ideal for home salon and solo-preneurs.
Parking Solutions
• Clearly communicate parking options on your website and appointment confirmations. If you have a driveway, reserve it for clients.
• Partner with nearby car parks to secure discounted rates for your clients. Inform neighbours about your business to preempt any parking-related issues.
Refreshments
• Offer complimentary drinks like tea, coffee, or water. If you plan to serve alcohol, ensure you have the necessary licences and comply with food hygiene regulations.
8. Sustainability and Waste Management
Business Waste
• Arrange a commercial waste disposal contract for salon-specific waste, such as hair clippings and chemical containers.
• Consider eco-friendly practices, like using eco-conscious products, biodegradable towels or recycling packaging.
Energy Efficiency
• Install low-flow showerheads and energy-efficient appliances to reduce water and electricity usage.
9. Community Engagement: Building Relationships
Buying in Groups
• Could you collaborate with local salons or other businesses to negotiate bulk discounts on supplies? This can significantly reduce your costs.
Neighbour Discounts
• Offer discounted services to nearby residents to offset any inconvenience caused by increased traffic or parking.
10. Ongoing Growth
Online Communities
• Join online forums or social media groups to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques.
• Attend virtual masterclasses or webinars to expand your skills and knowledge.
Client Feedback
• Use surveys or follow-up emails to gather client feedback. Use this information to refine your services and introduce new offerings.
Don’t get so caught up in all the business side of things that you forget to celebrate your achievement. Make sure you take photos, invite a few friends and family over for nibbles and drinks and even cut the ribbon before you let anyone get a glimpse of your brand new studio.
By addressing legal requirements, creating a professional and accessible space, and leveraging cost-effective marketing strategies, you can build a successful and sustainable business.
With thanks to Samantha Blues for contributing to this article.
