Above-ground pool installation crew

Homeowners who bought a pool kit from a retailer or online, plus pool shops that need an installer for their customers.

A fixed price per installation based on pool size and site difficulty, plus extras like decking, extra ground prep or fence work. Pool shops often send repeat work.

• Practical building and levelling skills
• Reading installation manuals and plans
• Customer service and clear quotes

• Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire (rules vary by province)
• Check whether your municipality requires a pool permit, a fence or gate and who must apply for it
• Electrical bonding and pump wiring usually need a licensed electrician, check your provincial rules
• Income is seasonal, so plan cash for the winter months
• Check with your provincial regulator whether any contractor licence applies, as Quebec has its own rules

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your equipment, trailer and insurance. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000. These are estimates, so check them against your own quotes and local demand.

Check these points: commercial general liability insurance, WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire, whether your municipality requires a pool permit and a fence or gate (and who applies), electrical bonding and pump wiring needing a licensed electrician, and any contractor licence with your provincial regulator, as Quebec has its own rules.

Useful skills include practical building and levelling, reading installation manuals and plans, and clear quoting with good customer service. Plan for at least about 15 hours a week. Income is seasonal, so plan your cash for the winter months.