Small neighbourhood hammam

Locals looking for relaxation, people with a Middle Eastern or Turkish background who know the tradition, couples, friend groups, and visitors after a different kind of day out.

Entry or session fees, with add-ons like scrub, foam wash, massage and tea. Group bookings, gift vouchers and off-peak deals help fill the quieter times.

• Hospitality and customer care
• Hygiene and cleaning routines
• Scheduling and managing a small team
• Scrub and wash treatment technique

• Council planning and building approval for the use, plus licensed plumbing, electrical and waterproofing work, so check before signing a lease
• Water quality, ventilation and cleaning rules for steam and wet areas (check your state health department for Legionella and hygiene requirements)
• Public liability insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff
• Wet floors and heat carry slip and health risks, so display clear health warnings (for example for pregnancy or heart conditions)
• High upfront fit-out cost (steam rooms, waterproofing, ventilation and plumbing are expensive) and ongoing water, power and laundry bills

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $200,000 to $600,000, depending on your premises and fit-out. Steam rooms, waterproofing, ventilation and plumbing are expensive, and ongoing water, power and laundry bills add to running costs.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on how many sessions you book and how well you fill timed slots. Water, power and laundry bills come out of that revenue.

Things to check: council planning and building approval, licensed plumbing, electrical and waterproofing work, and state health rules on water quality, ventilation and cleaning, including Legionella. Also check insurance and display clear health warnings.