Patio and driveway paving

Homeowners, landlords, real estate agents preparing properties for sale, and small builders who sub out hard landscaping.

Quote per job, usually priced per square metre plus materials and excavation or removal. Repeat work and referrals from builders and landscapers help keep jobs steady.

• Physical fitness and manual work
• Measuring, levelling and setting out accurately
• Quoting and customer service

• Check your state's licensing body: many states require a contractor or builder licence once a job passes a dollar threshold
• Public liability insurance, and check whether home warranty or other insurance applies to your jobs
• Check council rules on driveway crossovers, stormwater drainage and approvals
• Call Dial Before You Dig to locate underground services before excavating
• Heavy physical work, plus a safe-handling plan for silica dust from cutting pavers

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the tools and equipment you buy or hire, your vehicle needs and insurance. Get quotes for equipment and cover before you commit.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the number and size of jobs, whether you work alone or with a helper, and your pricing. It is heavy physical work, so allow for your capacity.

Check your state's licensing body, as many states require a contractor or builder licence once a job passes a dollar threshold. Also check insurance, council rules on driveway crossovers and stormwater, Dial Before You Dig requirements, and safe handling of silica dust.