Home typewriter repair workshop

Writers, hobbyists, collectors, people with inherited machines, and resellers who buy and sell vintage typewriters.

Fixed prices for standard services (clean and service, ribbon and platen replacement) and quoted prices for bigger repairs, plus charges for parts and return postage.

• Patient, detailed mechanical work
• Diagnosing faults by trial and care
• Clear communication about repair costs and timeframes

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business
• Public liability insurance, and cover for customers' machines while in your care
• Sourcing spare parts can be slow, so be upfront about timeframes
• Some solvents and cleaning products need safe storage and ventilation
• Register for an ABN, and check when GST registration applies

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on the tools, cleaning supplies and spare parts you buy. A home workshop keeps costs low, but you should still check insurance and any council approval.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $1,500, depending on how many machines you service and what you charge. This is revenue, not profit. Many people run it part-time, at around 6 hours a week at minimum.

Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business. Also check public liability insurance and cover for customers' machines, safe storage and ventilation for solvents, and when to register for an ABN and GST.