Mobile locksmith

Homeowners, renters, landlords, real estate agents, property managers and small businesses.

A call-out fee plus a labour charge, with parts added on top. Out-of-hours and urgent jobs usually earn a higher rate, and agents can provide repeat work.

• Mechanical aptitude and patience with fine work
• Calm customer service with people who are locked out
• Trustworthy and discreet
• Basic business admin and quoting

• Locksmith licensing differs by state and territory, so check your state's licensing body before taking jobs
• Public liability insurance, and check whether you need professional indemnity cover
• Always verify the customer's identity or right to access the property before opening a lock
• Out-of-hours call-outs can disrupt your week and raise safety concerns when working alone
• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your vehicle, tools and key-cutting equipment, stock and insurance. Costs vary with how well equipped you want to be from day one.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many call-outs and planned jobs you take, your pricing and the hours you work. This is revenue before costs, not profit.

Locksmith licensing differs by state and territory, so check with your state's licensing body before taking jobs. Also check public liability and professional indemnity insurance, and always verify a customer's identity or right to access the property.