Home workshop power tool repairer

Tradies, handymen, hobbyists and home DIYers who would rather repair a good tool than replace it, plus small building firms.

A fixed fee or a diagnostic fee plus parts and labour for each repair, with extra for pick-up and drop-off. Repeat work comes from tradies who bring in several tools.

• Mechanical and electrical fault finding
• Careful, tidy bench work
• Clear quotes and customer communication

• Council approval for a home-based business, including noise and customer visits
• Check whether your state requires electrical licensing or testing and tagging qualifications for the work you offer
• Public liability insurance, and cover for customers' tools while in your care
• Warranty and brand rules: some manufacturers limit repairs to authorised centres
• Safe storage of tools, batteries and solvents

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on the workshop equipment, tools and parts stock you need to buy. These are estimates only and will vary with what you already own.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many jobs you take and the type of repairs you offer. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit, and it can start at around 8 hours a week.

Check council approval for a home-based business, including noise and customer visits. Also check whether your state requires electrical licensing or testing and tagging qualifications, insurance for customers' tools, and manufacturer warranty rules on authorised repairs.