Part-Time fire safety assessor (subcontract)

Established fire safety, building certification and facilities management firms that need extra assessors at busy times.

Paid per inspection, per report or per day. Some contractors gradually add their own direct clients as they build a reputation.

• Hands-on experience in fire safety, firefighting, building or fire systems servicing
• Report writing
• Reliable time management
• Professional manner on client sites

• Check whether you are genuinely an independent contractor or would be treated as an employee, and get advice if unsure
• Insurance: firms may require you to hold your own professional indemnity and public liability cover
• Check your day job contract for any conflict of interest or restrictions on outside work
• Qualification and accreditation requirements vary by state, so confirm what applies before taking jobs

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the insurance cover and equipment the firms you work with expect you to have. These are estimates, so confirm requirements with each firm before buying anything.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how much work firms offer you and how many hours you can fit around your day job. This is an estimate, not a guaranteed income.

Check whether you would be treated as an independent contractor or an employee, and whether firms require your own professional indemnity and public liability cover. Confirm your state's qualification requirements and any restrictions in your day job contract.