Event audio and projector rental, run from home

Individuals planning parties, weddings and backyard movie nights, plus community groups, schools, small businesses and event planners who need kit for a day or weekend.

Daily or weekend rental fees per item or package, with extra charges for delivery, set-up and a refundable damage deposit. Popular packages (for example a speaker and microphone bundle) bring repeat bookings.

• Basic knowledge of audio, lighting and video gear
• Organized with bookings and equipment checks
• Clear, friendly customer service

• Commercial general liability insurance, plus cover for your equipment while it is out on rental and in transit; check with a broker
• Whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence or allows equipment storage and customer pickups at your home
• Electrical safety: check that gear is certified for use in Canada and that you test and tag or inspect it regularly
• Music licensing (for example SOCAN and Re:Sound tariffs) usually applies to the event host, but check who is responsible and explain it in your agreement
• Damaged or unreturned kit; use deposits, ID checks and photos at hand-over
• Seasonality: summer weddings and holiday parties are busy, while winter can be quiet, so consider corporate and indoor events

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how much audio, lighting and projector gear you buy, plus storage and insurance. Start with a small range and add kit as bookings grow.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $5,000, depending on your stock, prices and how often it is booked. Summer weddings and holiday parties are busy, while winter can be quiet, so consider corporate and indoor events.

Check insurance for liability and for gear on rental or in transit, and whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence. Also check electrical safety certification, who is responsible for music licensing, and use deposits and ID checks.