Custom Sunroom Design and Build

Homeowners who want extra living space, often in established neighbourhoods. Some jobs come through realtors, architects and designers.

A fixed quote or cost-plus price per project, covering materials, labour and a margin. Deposits and staged payments help cash flow.

• Building and carpentry experience
• Basic design and drawing, or a partner who does it
• Estimating and quoting accurately
• Managing crews, suppliers and permits
• Selling and explaining options to homeowners

• Contractor licensing and trade certification differ by province and municipality, and Quebec has RBQ licensing, so check your provincial regulator
• Building permits, zoning, setbacks and energy code rules for additions
• Commercial general liability insurance, plus WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire
• Residential contract rules, deposit limits and warranty requirements in your province
• Cost overruns and delays, so build contingency into quotes
• Winter weather and seasonal demand, so plan cash flow for slower months
• Home warranty or builder registration rules that may apply to additions in your province

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on your tools, vehicle, insurance, design software and how much work you do in-house. Build contingency into your budget.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on the number and size of jobs and the season. Plan on roughly 30 hours a week or more.

Contractor licensing and trade certification differ by province and municipality, and Quebec has RBQ licensing. Check building permits, zoning and energy code rules, insurance, WCB/WSIB, residential contract and deposit rules, and any home warranty requirements.