Small-scale appliance rental for tenants

Tenants in unfurnished lets, students, people between homes, and small landlords who want an appliance supplied without buying it.

A fixed monthly fee per appliance, often with a delivery and collection charge. Each machine earns more the longer it stays out, so the aim is to keep stock rented and in good condition.

• Basic appliance checking and cleaning
• Organised record keeping
• Friendly, clear customer communication
• Safe lifting and delivery

• Renting to individuals for longer than a few months may count as regulated consumer hire, so check the rules with the FCA before you start
• Electrical safety: check what testing and records you need for supplying second-hand electrical items
• Insurance for your stock and public liability cover for deliveries
• Check your lease, mortgage or council rules if you store stock at home
• Appliances that break down or get damaged, so agree who pays and keep a deposit policy clear

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on how much stock you buy. These are estimates, so price up your first few appliances and work out how long each takes to earn its cost back before committing.

Renting to individuals for longer than a few months may count as regulated consumer hire, so check the rules with the FCA before you start. Also check electrical safety testing and records for second-hand items, and insurance for stock and deliveries.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £200 to £1,000, depending on how many appliances you have out on rental and for how long. It can be run from around 5 hours a week, so it suits a side hustle.