Plasterboard repairs and small renovations

Fix holes, water damage and cracked ceilings, and plaster small rooms for homeowners.

Startup costA$2k to A$8k
Monthly revenueA$2k to A$8k
Time needed12+ h/week
First incomeWeeks
  • A$2k-8k
  • Side hustle
  • Out and about
  • Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.

What it is

Smaller residential jobs such as patching holes, repairing water-damaged ceilings, fixing cracks and lining a single room or garage. You deal directly with homeowners and landlords.

Your first three steps

  1. Check your state's licensing rules, as the dollar limit for unlicensed minor work varies and often applies to plastering
  2. Set up a van or ute with dust sheets, a vacuum sander and a basic tool kit, and arrange public liability insurance
  3. Create a simple local listing with before-and-after photos and ask property managers about repair work
Who pays

Homeowners, landlords, property managers and strata managers.

How it makes money

Quoted price per job or hourly rate with a minimum call-out fee, plus materials. Word of mouth and local listings feed repeat work.

Skills that help
  • Patching and smooth finishing
  • Clear quoting and customer service
  • Tidy, dust-aware working in occupied homes
Watch out for
  • Licence thresholds and contract rules for residential work vary by state, check your state's licensing body
  • Older homes may contain asbestos in walls, ceilings or sheeting, so stop and check the rules before cutting or sanding
  • Public liability insurance and possibly home warranty insurance for larger jobs, check requirements in your state
  • Accurate quotes, as hidden damage can blow out time and cost
  • Written agreements and deposits rules for domestic work differ by state

🔒 Full research report for Australia

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start a plasterboard repair business?

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your tools, vehicle and insurance. These are estimates only, so get real quotes for equipment and cover before you begin.

What rules should I check before doing plasterboard repairs?

Check licence thresholds and contract rules for residential work in your state, plus deposit and written agreement rules. Older homes may contain asbestos, so stop and check the rules before cutting or sanding. Check insurance requirements too.

How much can a plasterboard repair business earn?

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on how many jobs you take and their size. Accurate quotes matter, as hidden damage can blow out time and cost.

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