Disclaimer: The information contained on this site/blog is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included herein without seeking legal or other professional advice. Performing cosmetology services that do not comply with State Board regulation or licensing requirements can result in fines, suspension and/or revocation of licensing and jail time. The contents of this blog contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments or address your situation. Vagaro disclaims any and all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on content on this blog. This site contains text, links, graphics, images, and other material that Vagaro is not responsible concerning the veracity or accuracy thereof, including but not limited to advice or content of such mediums.
For professionals in states that have recently phased salon and barbering services into the official reopening, there are many new regulations and guidelines to navigate. For many stylists, there’s a question of whether they can – or even want to – go back into the salon. Providing concierge services (house calls and offsite services) is a way that stylists can provide a convenient option to customers and get back to business. If you’re thinking about adding house calls to your list of services, here’s everything you’ll need to consider!
Mobile Salons Vs House Calls – What’s the Difference?
The most important consideration is whether your state board of cosmetology and barbering allows house calls or differentiates mobile salons from offsite services.
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Mobile salons – For most states is exactly that, a one-chair salon on wheels that can be transported between locations.
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Offsite services - Defined by most states as cosmetology or barbering services provided by a licensed professional at a location other than their licensed place of business. This covers everything from house calls to events and platform work at trade shows, fashion shoots, or film sites.
Make Sure Your State Allows Offsite Services
Each state has its own rules and regulations for offsite services and mobile salons, so before you begin to offer this service, make sure that it’s something your state allows. Many states have ambiguous language about offsite services, with exemptions for illness and home bound patients. Because of this ambiguity under pandemic circumstances, many states have relaxed their regulations – but before you start booking house calls, make sure that you’re not risking your license. Consequences for violations vary, and can include fines, loss of licensing, misdemeanor criminal charges, and in some cases, even jail time.
Get a Permit and Keep Detailed Records
In some states, you’ll need to get specialized permits, or freelance operator licenses. There are often associated application and licensing fees associated with these permits. In other states, you may need to consult city ordinances to make sure that you’ve got the correct clearances. If you live in one of the numerous states permitting offsite services on a strictly case-by-case basis, be ready to provide detailed documentation to your state board. This can include everything from client addresses, services provided, disinfection and hygiene protocols, duration of appointment, mileage, and proof of liability and auto insurance. Many state boards additionally require regular COVID-19 tests submitted as part of offsite documentation. Make sure that your offsite services are done with respect to your license, through the proper channels, and in a way that can be tracked and traced in the event that you or one of your clients is exposed to COVID-19.
Update Your Insurance
If you’re used to working in a salon, you may already carry general liability insurance or hairdressing business insurance. You’ll need to consult your insurance carrier to update your policy to include coverage when you’re working offsite. You’ll be navigating variables in client homes like pets, kids, and a workspace not designed for professional services. So, you’ll need to make sure that if you spill color or someone trips on a towel, it won’t become a thorny legal issue down the road. Updating your insurance policy helps to safeguard both you and your business against claims. You may also need to update your auto insurance to make sure you’re covered during your travel time from client to client. Finally, investing in some sort of worker’s compensation insurance is a good idea when you’re working away from the salon, in case you’re injured offsite.
Traveling Equipment
Once you’ve made sure your offsite services comply with your state regulations and you’ve updated your insurance policies, it’s time to think about what equipment you’ll need to deliver quality services to clients in the home. You’ll also want to consider how to transport equipment and supplies from site to site, and what sort of system you’ll use to plan and pack everything you’ll need for the day. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Will you ask customers to wash their hair before you arrive?_
- How will you disinfect your work area in the customer’s home?_
- What kind of lighting will be available?_
- If you’re providing chemical services, what sort of ventilation does their home have?_
- What additional tools will you need to purchase, such as portable EMV chip card readers, portable shampoo nozzles, portable hood dryers, or disposable cutting capes?_
- How will you pack and transport tools, equipment, and supplies between sites?_
Going Mobile? Let Us Help!
If you're planning on offering mobile and outcall services, we've got all the tools you need. Just enable the Outcall/Mobile Services feature and list yourself as a mobile business on Vagaro.com, and let customers know they can book online through the Vagaro App – even when you’re on the move!
Disclaimer: The information contained on this site/blog is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included herein without seeking legal or other professional advice. Performing cosmetology services that do not comply with State Board regulation or licensing requirements can result in fines, suspension and/or revocation of licensing and jail time. The contents of this blog contain general information and may not reflect current legal developments or address your situation. Vagaro disclaims any and all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on content on this blog. This site contains text, links, graphics, images, and other material that Vagaro is not responsible concerning the veracity or accuracy thereof, including but not limited to advice or content of such mediums.
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