Boat repair workshop

Boat owners, fishing operators, marinas, boat clubs and dealers who need overflow repair work.

Labour charged by the hour plus parts mark-up, with larger refit and repair jobs quoted at a fixed price. Storage or yard fees can add income.

• Marine engine and mechanical knowledge
• Fibreglass, timber or aluminium repair
• Quoting and job planning
• Managing stock and suppliers

• Council planning approval and zoning for a workshop, check with your local council
• Environmental rules for fuel, solvents, antifoul paint, sanding dust and waste, check with your state EPA
• Public liability, property and 'care, custody and control' insurance for customers' boats
• Workers compensation insurance and work health and safety duties once you hire staff
• Check whether your state requires a licence for marine electrical or gas work
• Slow seasons and large upfront costs if jobs are delayed

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $120,000, depending on the shed or unit you rent, your tools and equipment, and the parts stock you hold. Treat this as an estimate and get quotes before committing to a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on the size and number of jobs you take, from about 35 hours a week. Slow seasons and delayed jobs can affect your income, so plan for them.

Check council planning approval and zoning, and your state EPA's rules on fuel, solvents, antifoul paint, sanding dust and waste. Check insurance for customers' boats, workers compensation and work health and safety duties, and licences for marine electrical or gas work.