How to Start a Drywall Contractor Business in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones
- Dec 1
- 3 min read
Starting a drywall contractor business in Texas can be a highly profitable venture thanks to booming construction in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and El Paso. Whether you're moving from subcontracting to ownership or starting from scratch, this guide will give you the exact steps to launch your business successfully.
1. Know the Licensing Requirements for Texas Drywall Contractors
Texas does not require statewide licensing for drywall contractors, but some cities have local registration rules. You may need:
A city or county Business License
A local Contractor Registration
A Texas Sales Tax Permit
Jobsite safety compliance under Texas workplace laws
2. Register Your Business With the State of Texas
You will register your business with the Texas Secretary of State. Most drywall contractors choose an:
LLC (recommended for liability protection)
Sole proprietorship
S-Corp
You will also need to obtain your EIN from the IRS.
3. Prepare Your Financial Foundation
Before taking on your first job, set up:
A dedicated business bank account
Accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, etc.)
Job costing and estimating tools
Written payment terms and a contract template
Drywall contractors in large markets like San Antonio, Austin, and Fort Worth often manage multiple projects, so accurate cost tracking helps prevent profit loss.
4. Purchase the Tools & Equipment You Need
At minimum, drywall contractors in Texas need:
Drywall lifts
Taping and finishing tools
Mud mixers & sanders
PPE (gloves, respirators, safety glasses)
Work trucks or vans
Scaffolding or stilts
In busier cities like Houston, Dallas, and El Paso, investing in efficient equipment can help you win more commercial jobs.
5. Hire Skilled Labor (Optional but Recommended)
Quality work helps you land repeat customers. To find reliable workers:
Advertise on Texas job boards
Partner with trade schools
Offer safety training and consistent hours
Pay competitively
As construction grows statewide, high-quality drywall tradespeople are in demand.
6. Follow Texas Jobsite Safety Requirements
Instead of OSHA-focused guidance, here are Texas-specific safety resources every drywall contractor should follow:
Key Texas Safety Resources:
Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) Workplace Safety – helpful guidelines for construction job sites
Texas Workforce Commission – worker protection and employer compliance resources
Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR) – statewide contractor safety notices
These agencies provide guidelines on:
Fall prevention
Safe use of ladders and scaffolding
Handling heavy drywall sheets
Dust and air quality control
Worker safety training
Use these resources to build a safe and compliant work environment.
7. Market Your Drywall Contractor Business in Texas
Here are the most effective marketing methods for contractors:
Online:
Local SEO for “Texas drywall contractor”
Website with service pages for Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and El Paso
Facebook & Instagram portfolios
Offline:
Networking with general contractors
Joining Texas builder associations
Referrals from satisfied clients
The more visible your business is, the more bids you’ll receive.
Market Your Drywall Brand with Contractor Back Office
Contractor Back Office helps drywall contracting businesses establish a professional brand by managing websites & SEO email & calendar management, and social media platforms. These services make it easier to showcase your services, share project photos, and engage with potential clients online—helping you build credibility and attract more contracts.
8. Get the Right Insurance for Your Texas Drywall Business
Insurance is not just recommended—many general contractors won’t hire you without it.
Essential Policies for Drywall Contractors in Texas:
Workers’ Compensation (highly recommended even though Texas doesn’t mandate it)
Commercial Property Insurance (if you store materials)
9. Protect Your Business With a Texas Independent Insurance Agency
Choosing an insurance agency that represents multiple carriers gives you better pricing and better coverage.
One Hampton Insurance is a Texas independent insurance agency with offices serving:
Houston
Dallas
Austin
San Antonio
Fort Worth
El Paso
Final Thoughts
Starting a drywall contractor business in Texas is a smart decision with major growth potential. With the right setup, equipment, marketing, and insurance protection, you’ll be ready to compete in major markets across Texas and build a successful contracting company.
Whenever you're ready to protect your business, One Hampton Insurance is here to help.
Contact us today.
FAQs
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