Handyman for small landlords

Small landlords with a few units, owners of rental houses and basement suites, and condo owners who rent out their place.

Hourly rate or quoted price per job, plus materials. Repeat landlords provide steady work, and unit turnovers can bring several jobs at once.

• General repair and DIY skills
• Reliable and good at communicating
• Quoting jobs and keeping simple records

• Commercial general liability insurance, and ask whether your clients want proof of coverage
• Electrical, plumbing and gas work often needs a certified tradesperson in your province, so check what you may do yourself
• Check whether your municipality requires a business licence
• Register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold
• Winter slows exterior work, so plan for seasonal gaps

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your tools, vehicle setup and insurance. Treat this as an estimate and price your own tools, van needs and coverage before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many landlords you serve and how many hours you work. The estimate assumes at least about 12 hours a week.

Things to check: commercial general liability insurance and whether clients want proof of coverage, whether your municipality requires a business licence, and which electrical, plumbing or gas work needs a certified tradesperson in your province. Also register for GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold.