Tool and equipment hire shop

Local builders, landscapers, small contractors, renovators and homeowners wanting walk-in or same-day hire.

Hire fees by the hour, day and week, plus delivery, consumables like blades and fuel, and sometimes sales of accessories.

• Mechanical know-how for servicing equipment
• Stock and asset tracking
• Customer service and advice
• Small business management

• High upfront cost for stock, so consider buying used or leasing equipment
• Public liability, stock and equipment insurance, check cover for hired items and theft
• Council zoning and signage approvals for the premises, check with your local council
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire staff, check your state scheme
• Larger equipment such as scaffolding or elevated platforms may bring safety and licensing requirements, check your state's work health and safety regulator
• Competition from big national hire chains, so focus on service and local knowledge

Estimates typically put startup costs at around $40,000 to $200,000, depending on your premises, the range of equipment and whether you buy new, used or lease. Stock is a high upfront cost, so consider used or leased equipment.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, fleet size and customer mix. Big national hire chains are competitors, so service and local knowledge can help you stand out.

Check council zoning and signage approvals for the premises, and insurance covering hired items and theft. Larger equipment such as scaffolding or elevated platforms may bring safety and licensing requirements, so check with your state's work health and safety regulator. Workers compensation applies once you hire staff.