Smart home installer for local homeowners

Homeowners who want smart devices but don't have the time or confidence to set them up, including busy families, older owners and people who have just bought a home.

A fixed price or hourly rate per installation, plus a small mark-up on devices if you supply them. Add-ons like Wi-Fi fixes and a follow-up tutorial can raise the job value.

• Comfortable with Wi-Fi, apps and smart devices
• Basic hand tools and tidy workmanship
• Clear explanations for non-technical customers

• Anything that involves replacing wall switches, wiring or a hardwired thermostat may count as electrical work, check your provincial rules on who can do it and whether you need a licensed electrician
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check what cover you need if a device causes damage
• Check whether your municipality requires a business licence
• Customer privacy and security: never keep customers' passwords, and set up their accounts in their name
• Alarm monitoring and security systems may have separate licensing in some provinces, check before offering them

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on the tools, demo devices and insurance you choose. Treat it as a rough estimate and price your kit against the jobs you plan to take.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on how many jobs you take and what you charge. You can start with about 8 hours a week and build from there.

Check your provincial rules: replacing wall switches, wiring or a hardwired thermostat may count as electrical work needing a licensed electrician. Also check municipal business licence rules, insurance, and whether alarm monitoring or security systems need separate licensing in your province.