Local radiator shop and repair counter

Homeowners in older houses, landlords and property managers, and plumbers or heating contractors who need parts quickly.

Margin on radiators, valves and fittings, plus repair and refurbishing fees. Regular trade accounts with contractors help smooth out the seasons.

• Knowing how hot water heating systems work
• Stock control and ordering
• Customer service and quoting
• Handling heavy items safely

• Commercial general liability and property insurance
• Zoning and business licence rules in your municipality
• Demand peaks in fall and winter, so plan cash flow for the quiet months
• Installing radiators or touching boilers and gas lines may need a certified tradesperson in your province, so check before offering fitting
• Stock tied up in heavy items, so start with fast-moving sizes

Estimates are typically around $25,000 to $90,000 to start, depending on your unit and how much stock you carry. Heavy items tie up cash, so starting with fast-moving sizes is worth considering.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on stock, location and how many repairs and trade customers you win. Estimates assume at least about 30 hours a week. Demand peaks in fall and winter.

Things to check: zoning and business licence rules in your municipality; commercial general liability and property insurance; and whether installing radiators or touching boilers and gas lines needs a certified tradesperson in your province before you offer fitting.