Subcontract Window and Door Installer

Window and door companies, renovation contractors and builders who sell the job but need installers. Some landlords and property managers may also hire you directly.

Paid per window or door installed, or by the day. Larger or awkward openings pay more, and a steady flow of jobs from one or two companies keeps your days full.

• Carpentry or general renovation experience
• Accurate measuring and levelling
• Safe lifting and working at height
• Reliable and tidy in customers' homes

• Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB or WSIB rules for self-employed workers in your province
• Whether your province or municipality requires a contractor licence or registration (Quebec has its own construction licensing, check with the RBQ)
• Fall protection and safe ladder or scaffold use on upper floors
• Older homes may have lead paint or asbestos-containing materials, check the rules before disturbing them
• Winter work: cold weather limits when you can open up a house and when sealants cure properly
• Depending on one company for work is risky, so try to have at least two sources

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your tools, vehicle, insurance and safety gear. Costs vary by province and by the type of installs you take on.

Monthly revenue is an estimate, typically around $2,500 to $11,000, depending on how many installs you complete, your rates and how steady your contractor work is. The estimate assumes at least about 20 hours a week.

Check commercial general liability insurance and WCB or WSIB rules for self-employed workers in your province. Ask whether a contractor licence is required, with Quebec having its own licensing through the RBQ. Also check fall protection and the rules on lead paint or asbestos in older homes.