Structured Cabling Installation

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Startup Cost
$20,000-$100,000
Difficulty
Intermediate
Time to Profit
10-18 months
Profit Potential
$80,000-$400,000/year

Overview

Structured cabling contractors install data cabling, network infrastructure, and structured wiring systems for commercial buildings.

With network connectivity essential and proper cabling critical, cabling installation generates revenue of $130,000-$460,000 with 50-70% margins through installation projects.

The business requires low-voltage licensing, cabling tools and equipment, cable testing and certification tools, understanding TIA/EIA standards, and commercial installation experience.

Services include Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6a cabling, fiber optic installation, patch panel and rack installation, cable testing and certification, telecom room buildout, and cable plant documentation.

Revenue through installation projects.

Success factors include low-voltage licensing and insurance, proper cable installation techniques, cable testing and certification capability, understanding structured cabling standards, and building general contractor and IT relationships.

Marketing focuses on commercial construction, building owners, general contractors, and IT companies.

With network cabling fundamental and standards compliance required in 2025, structured cabling offers infrastructure opportunities serving connectivity with licensing and standards knowledge as barriers.

Required Skills

  • Low-voltage wiring and licensing
  • Structured cabling installation
  • Cable testing and certification
  • TIA/EIA standards
  • Fiber optic termination
  • Commercial construction

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Network cabling fundamental
  • Commercial construction demand
  • Standards compliance required
  • Cable testing certification premium
  • Recurring building projects

Cons

  • Low-voltage license required
  • Tools and equipment investment
  • Physical labor demands
  • Commercial jobsite conditions
  • Competitive bidding

How to Get Started

  1. Get low-voltage license
  2. Acquire cabling tools and equipment
  3. Get cable testing certification
  4. Learn TIA/EIA cabling standards
  5. Build GC relationships
  6. Bid commercial projects
  7. Provide testing and certification

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