Brick repair and chimney restoration

Homeowners, landlords, property managers and home inspectors' clients who need defects fixed.

Quote per job or per day, plus materials. Repair work is often booked in the warmer months, so busy spring and autumn schedules help carry quieter winter weeks.

• Bricklaying and mortar mixing
• Working safely at height
• Quoting and matching old brick and mortar
• Customer service

• Bricklayer is a regulated or designated trade in some provinces, so check your provincial apprenticeship body about certification
• Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire help (rules vary by province)
• Working at height and chimney work carry real injury risk, so follow provincial safety rules
• Winter weather limits outdoor masonry, so plan for seasonal income
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your tools, work vehicle and insurance. The final figure varies with how much equipment you already own and the kinds of repair jobs you plan to take on.

Estimates put monthly revenue at typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on how many repair jobs you take and how large they are. Winter weather limits outdoor masonry, so it helps to plan for seasonal income.

Check with your provincial apprenticeship body, since bricklayer is a regulated or designated trade in some provinces. Also check insurance, WCB or WSIB coverage if you hire help, provincial safety rules for work at height, and GST/HST registration.