Custom sunroom and conservatory builder

Homeowners making a larger investment in their home, including those renovating or planning to sell.

Quoted project prices, usually paid in stages, covering design, materials, labour and a margin for managing the job.

• Building or carpentry background
• Drawing up simple designs or working with a designer
• Project management and managing subcontractors

• Builder licence and contract rules, which differ by state and territory and often cover deposits and written contracts
• Council or certifier approvals, including energy efficiency and bushfire or wind requirements in some areas
• Home warranty or builder's warranty insurance, plus public liability and workers compensation if you hire
• Cash flow, since materials are paid up front and customers pay in stages
• Cost overruns on custom work, so build contingencies into quotes

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your equipment, insurance and the size of projects you take on. Cash flow matters, since materials are paid up front and customers pay in stages.

Check builder licence and contract rules in your state or territory, which often cover deposits and written contracts. Also check council or certifier approvals, including energy efficiency and bushfire or wind requirements in some areas, plus home warranty, public liability and workers compensation insurance.

Monthly revenue is typically around $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the number and size of projects. The estimate assumes at least about 30 hours a week. Cost overruns on custom work are possible, so build contingencies into quotes.