Solo shopfitting and fixture installer
Build and install counters, shelving and fixtures for small shops, cafés and offices as a one-person trade.
- C$3k-12k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
Fitting out small commercial spaces with counters, shelving, display units, partitions and trim, working from drawings or the owner's brief. You usually work alone or with a helper, using hand and power tools on site.
Your first three steps
- Price a few sample jobs (a counter, a wall of shelving) using local material costs and set your day rate
- Get commercial general liability insurance and check your provincial requirements for contractors and WCB/WSIB coverage
- Show photos of your work to local shop owners, property managers and general contractors, and ask who needs a reliable fitter
Who pays
Independent shop owners, café and restaurant owners, landlords, franchise operators and small office tenants.
How it makes money
Fixed quote per job or day rate for labour, with materials charged on top at a small mark-up. Repeat work comes from referrals, property managers and other contractors.
Skills that help
- Carpentry and finishing
- Reading drawings and measuring accurately
- Quoting and keeping to deadlines
Watch out for
- Commercial general liability insurance, as landlords often ask for proof before you can work in a unit
- Check whether your province or municipality requires a business licence or trade certification for carpentry and installation work
- WCB/WSIB coverage rules for yourself and any helpers, which vary by province
- Electrical, plumbing and gas work usually needs a licensed tradesperson, so plan to subcontract these
- Tight shop opening dates can lead to penalties or unpaid invoices, so agree schedules and payment terms in writing
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start as a solo shopfitter in Canada?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the tools you already own and the insurance you need. Treat this as an estimate and price your own kit list before you commit.
How much can a solo shopfitter earn?
Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $3,000 to $10,000, depending on how many jobs you take on and whether you work with a helper. Tight opening dates can delay payment, so agree terms in writing.
What licences and rules should a shopfitter check in Canada?
Check whether your province or municipality requires a business licence or trade certification for carpentry and installation work. Electrical, plumbing and gas work usually needs a licensed tradesperson, so plan to subcontract. Also check WCB/WSIB rules for yourself and helpers.
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