Student instrument hire from home

Parents of primary and high school students starting band or strings programs, plus adult beginners trying an instrument first.

A regular monthly or termly hire fee per instrument, often with a bond. Some businesses offer rent-to-own or credit towards a purchase.

• Basic instrument knowledge and care
• Organised record keeping
• Friendly customer service

• Public liability insurance, plus cover for the instruments themselves against loss, theft and damage
• Check whether your council needs approval for running a business from home, especially with customer pick-ups
• Have a clear hire agreement covering damage, late returns and bonds, and check what consumer law requires
• Hygiene for mouthpieces and reeds between hires, and instrument repair costs

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on how many instruments you buy, which types you choose and the insurance you take out. Repair costs are also worth allowing for.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on the size of your fleet, hire prices and how many families you reach. It suits a part-time or side business of around five hours a week at minimum.

Check public liability insurance and cover for the instruments against loss, theft and damage. Check whether your council needs approval for a home business with pick-ups, and have a clear hire agreement that reflects consumer law, including hygiene for mouthpieces and reeds.