Home workshop screen repair by mail or drop-off

Individuals who want a cheaper option than a brand repair, plus small businesses and local sellers of used devices.

A fixed price per repair, with a quote given before work starts. Laptop screens usually bring higher prices than phones.

• Careful, methodical work
• Diagnosing faults beyond the screen
• Organized record keeping for parts and jobs

• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence and what zoning allows for customer visits
• Commercial general liability insurance and cover for devices left with you
• Home insurance may not cover business equipment or customers' property, check with your insurer
• Safe handling and storage of swollen or damaged lithium batteries
• Registering for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold
• Protecting customer data and wiping nothing without permission

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your tools, parts stock and insurance. Check that your home insurance covers business equipment and customers' devices, as it may not.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $2,500, depending on how many repairs you complete and what you charge. The estimates assume at least about 6 hours a week, so it can begin as a small side business.

Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence and what zoning allows for customer visits. Also check GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, safe storage of swollen or damaged lithium batteries, and how you will protect customer data.