What should I ask about a window shop’s service van routes and technicians?

Start with the work itself. Ask for a week of real schedules to see how calls are grouped, how long a typical visit runs and how far the vans travel. Ask what share of the day is driving and what share is on site, and how emergencies are fitted in.

Then look at the technicians. Ask for their experience, certifications and which ones the customers ask for by name. Find out whether they are employees or contractors and how they are paid, whether by hour, by job or with a bonus. A shop that depends on one or two key techs should have a plan if either leaves.

Look at the vans too. Ask who owns them, whether they are financed, how old they are and what the repair history looks like. Ask whether tools and stock travel with the vans. Your accountant can help you work out whether the service side covers its own costs and any loan payments. Ask your lawyer about any employment questions. Ask how customer complaints about service visits are handled and who answers the phone when a technician is on the road. Ask what tools and parts each van should carry, and how stock is counted, so you know what is in the vehicles you are taking over.

Key takeaways

• Review real weekly schedules, not just a description of the routes.
• Ask which technicians are essential and how they are engaged.
• Confirm van ownership, financing, condition and repair history.