Mobile appliance repair technician

Homeowners, landlords, property managers and tenants who would rather repair than replace a broken appliance.

A service call fee for diagnosis, plus labour and a markup on parts. Landlords and property managers can bring repeat work.

• Fault finding and mechanical or electrical know-how
• Comfortable with tools and reading wiring diagrams
• Clear, honest communication with customers
• Basic bookkeeping and scheduling

• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether your province requires WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire
• Gas appliances (ranges, dryers) usually need a licensed gas fitter in most provinces, so check your provincial regulator before touching them
• Refrigerant handling in fridges and freezers typically requires environmental certification, so check the rules in your province before working on sealed systems
• Check whether your municipality requires a business licence
• Winter driving and parts delays can disrupt your schedule

Estimated startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000 CAD, depending on your van, tools and the parts stock you carry. Your own quotes and supplier prices will give a firmer figure for your area.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $9,000 CAD, depending on how many jobs you take on and the repairs you offer. The estimate assumes at least about 15 hours a week.

Things to check include commercial general liability insurance, WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire, and a municipal business licence. Gas appliances usually need a licensed gas fitter in most provinces, and refrigerant handling typically requires certification, so check your provincial regulator.