Mobile computer repair and tech help

Households, older people, home-based workers and small businesses without their own IT person.

A call-out fee plus an hourly rate, or a fixed price for common jobs. Parts are charged with a small markup. Small businesses may take a regular support arrangement.

• Diagnosing hardware and software faults
• Patient, plain-English explanations
• Reliable and trustworthy with personal data

• Public liability insurance, and ask your insurer whether you need professional indemnity cover for data loss or advice
• Privacy: you will see personal files, so be clear about what you access and how you handle customer data
• Check your state's rules on any licensing for in-home work, plus the GST threshold once turnover grows
• Warranty: don't open devices still under manufacturer warranty without telling the customer

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your tools, spare parts and insurance. It is worth asking your insurer whether you also need professional indemnity cover.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on how many call-outs you take and your rates. Hours are typically from about 8 per week, and this is revenue before costs, not profit.

Check public liability insurance, and ask your insurer about professional indemnity for data loss or advice. Be clear about how you handle customers' personal data. Check your state's rules on licensing for in-home work and the GST threshold, and don't open devices under warranty without telling the customer.