Neighbourhood electrical repair shop

Local households, landlords, restaurants, salons and small offices that need equipment fixed quickly.

Diagnostic fees and repair labour, parts mark-up, and ongoing work from business customers. Some shops add sales of refurbished items, belts, bags and other consumables.

• Electrical and electronics fault-finding
• Customer service at the counter
• Basic bookkeeping and stock control
• Pricing repairs fairly

• Municipal business licence, zoning and signage rules, which vary by city
• Commercial general liability insurance plus property cover for customers' items in your care
• Check your provincial rules on electrical work and any certification needed, and avoid work on gas appliances unless properly certified
• WCB or WSIB coverage once you hire staff; rules differ by province
• Rent is a fixed cost, so test demand from a home bench first if unsure
• Check rules for disposing of old electronics and hazardous parts, and French-language requirements in Quebec

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on the unit, fit-out, tools and parts stock. Rent is a fixed cost, so testing demand from a home bench first may help if you are unsure.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $22,000, depending on location, the mix of household and business customers and your pricing. The idea assumes at least about 30 hours a week.

Check municipal business licence, zoning and signage rules, and your province's rules on electrical work and any certification needed. Avoid gas appliances unless properly certified, and check insurance, WCB or WSIB coverage if you hire, e-waste disposal, and Quebec French-language requirements.