Part-Time Deck Builder for Homeowners in Canada

Homeowners, small landlords and property managers who want a deck built or repaired without hiring a large contractor.

Fixed quote per project based on materials, labour and a margin. A deposit is usually taken up front to buy materials, with the balance paid on completion.

• Carpentry and measuring accurately
• Reading simple plans
• Quoting jobs and managing costs
• Reliable communication with clients

• Building permits and inspections, which vary by municipality and deck height, so check before quoting
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether your province requires WCB/WSIB coverage
• Local building code rules for railings, footings and frost depth
• Winter shuts down outdoor work in much of Canada, so plan for seasonal income
• Check whether your province requires any trade licensing or home renovation registration

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the tools you already own, a vehicle or trailer, insurance and the materials you need to buy up front for your first jobs.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many projects you take on and their size. Winter shuts down outdoor work in much of Canada, so plan for seasonal income.

Check building permits and inspections, which vary by municipality and deck height, plus local code rules for railings, footings and frost depth. Also check liability insurance, WCB/WSIB requirements, and any provincial trade licensing or home renovation registration.