Awning supply and installation

Householders wanting shade for patios and windows, plus cafés, shops and small commercial premises.

You charge a fixed quote per job that covers the awning at a markup, plus installation labour. Repairs, re-covering and motor upgrades add smaller extra jobs.

• Accurate measuring and quoting
• Confident with tools and working at height
• Customer service and sales
• Basic admin and job scheduling

• Public liability insurance, and workers compensation once you hire help
• Working at height: check safety requirements and training in your state
• Fixing to a building may need council or body corporate approval, so check before quoting
• Motorised awnings need electrical connection, which usually needs a licensed electrician in your state
• Some states may require a builder or contractor licence above certain job values, so check with your state licensing body
• Wind and weather damage claims, so understand warranty terms from your supplier

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on your tools, vehicle set-up, insurance and any sample products or training. These are estimates, so get quotes for your own situation.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the number and size of jobs you win and the awning types you offer. These are revenue estimates, not profit, starting at about 15 hours a week.

Check public liability insurance, working at height requirements and training in your state, and whether council or body corporate approval is needed. Motorised awnings usually need a licensed electrician, and some states may require a builder or contractor licence above certain job values.