Backyard Pool Swim Lessons in Summer

Parents of preschool and school-age children who want small, relaxed classes close to home.

A fee per session or a package for a set of lessons, with a few classes per day in peak season.

• Recognized swim instructor certification
• Child safety awareness
• Scheduling small groups

• Home insurance often excludes business use, so check you have liability cover that includes paid lessons at a home pool
• Municipal home-based business licence or zoning rules, which vary by city
• Pool fencing, gate and supervision requirements, which vary by municipality
• Short season in most of Canada, weather and water temperature affect bookings
• A child in difficulty is a serious risk, so keep class sizes small and always supervised

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around $300 to $1,500, depending on your certification, insurance and equipment. Home insurance often excludes business use, so check you have liability cover that includes paid lessons.

Estimates typically put monthly revenue at around $600 to $3,000, depending on class sizes and how many sessions you run. Most of Canada has a short season, and weather and water temperature affect bookings. The idea assumes at least about 6 hours a week.

Check whether a municipal home-based business licence or zoning rules apply, as they vary by city. Also check pool fencing, gate and supervision requirements in your municipality, and liability cover for paid lessons at a home pool.