An owner’s thoughts on what makes a good A&P
Communication
Tell the customer what you expect to do and when it will be done. Email is best because it leaves a chain where you and the customer can see how you match up to expectations.
Do not perform work that the customer has not approved except; when doing any maintenance replace worn screws, adele clamps, zip ties, and simple repairs as part of the maintenance or inspection. Do not charge for parts unless they cost more than a few dollars or need to be ordered specially.
If you can’t do something, let the customer know that you don’t have the tools or time to do the job.
Professionalism
Show up when you say you will.
Complete the job.
Don’t bad mouth other A&P’s and especially don’t bad mouth other customers.
Don’t complain about how much tools and insurance cost.
Have parts that frequently need to be replaced on hand: screws, nuts and bolts, adele clamps, zip ties, wiring, wire terminals, grease.
Have more expensive parts on hand like common oil filters, oil, scat tubing, and brake pads. Charge the customer the cost plus 25%.
Print stickers for the logbooks instead of writing the entries. It’s easier to search scanned logbooks if the entries are typed.
Have adequate insurance.
Expertise
Clearly explain why any maintenance must be performed.
For items that are not required to be fixed or replaced right now, explain how to monitor. Follow up with the customer.
Rates
Have a fixed rate for annual inspections, oil changes, tire changes, brake linings, and other items that are predictable.
Let the owner know how much they will save if they do all the annual work themselves except for the inspection. It will vary by plane type.
Charge for finding parts OR charge a markup on parts you order but not both. If it is an owner assisted annual have the customer order the parts but text them the exact part number to order and where to order it from so they can paste it into the order form. Trust me, you don’t want to orally tell people what to order.
Miscellaneous
Shipping is expensive so a quick check when starting the annual of parts that might need to be ordered will save both time and money for the customer. Some parts, like air filters, ELT batteries, and oil filters will have to be replaced at every annual so the customer can order them in advance. Aircraft Spruce usually has everything in stock in Corona and their prices are competitive. UPS ground can get in the next day. If you use USPS they don’t ship immediately so it may take a week or so but saves a bunch of money.
Keith at Des Moines Flying Service can get parts shipped from Aviall. SkyGeek has lots of parts as well but they ship from NY so it takes longer and costs more.
Expectations of the customer
To do a thorough inspection you need a clean airplane so you can check for cracks. Make sure the customer knows that you will have to charge extra for cleaning that is necessary to do an inspection.
Payment is due when the work is completed. If you are going to accept Zelle, Venmo, or credit cards tell the customer what additional charge there will be.
Payment for expensive items is due when they are ordered or preferably ordered by the customer.