Home-Based trade lighting supplier

Electricians, small building and renovation firms, and independent lighting or hardware retailers.

You earn the margin between your buy price and trade sell price. Repeat orders from a handful of regular electricians and builders matter more than one-off sales.

• Knowing lighting products and specs
• Building trade relationships
• Organised ordering and record keeping

• Electrical products must meet Australian safety rules. Check the Electrical Equipment Safety System and your state regulator for what applies to the products you sell
• Check whether your supplier or you are responsible for compliance marking and registration of the products
• Public liability and product liability insurance, as faulty lights can cause damage
• Check whether your council requires approval to run a home-based business
• Customers may pay on credit terms, so check your cash flow and set clear payment terms

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how much stock you hold, the range you offer and your insurance and setup. Because you order per job, you can keep early outlay low.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many electricians and builders you supply and the size of their jobs. This is revenue, not profit, so allow for product costs and other expenses.

Check that the products meet Australian electrical safety rules, including the Electrical Equipment Safety System and your state regulator. Also check who is responsible for compliance marking and registration, what insurance you need, and whether your council requires approval for a home-based business.