Home workshop AV repair

Bands and DJs, churches, community halls, schools, small businesses and hobbyists with gear they would rather fix than replace.

A diagnostic fee plus labour and parts on each repair. Customers drop off or post items, and repeat work often comes from venues and music shops.

• Electronics fault-finding and soldering
• Reading circuit diagrams and service manuals
• Clear quotes and honest advice on repair vs replace

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a business from home
• Public liability insurance, and check whether you need cover for customers' equipment while it is in your care
• Electrical safety: mains and high-voltage parts can be dangerous, and check your state's rules on what electrical work you can do without a licence
• Testing and tagging is a separate skill and may need training or accreditation
• Parts for older or imported gear can be hard to source, so be upfront with customers about timeframes

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $4,000, depending on test gear, tools, spare parts and insurance. These are estimates, so list the equipment you already own before budgeting.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on how many repairs you take on and what you charge. Parts sourcing times for older or imported gear can affect your throughput.

Check whether your council requires approval to run a business from home, public liability insurance and cover for customers' equipment, and your state's rules on electrical work without a licence. Testing and tagging may also need separate training or accreditation.