Architectural salvage shop or yard

Homeowners renovating period properties, builders, interior designers, landlords, and film and TV set dressers.

Margin on items sold, plus extras such as restoration, made-to-fit work, delivery and sourcing items for specific customers.

• Knowledge of period features and reclaimed materials
• Buying and pricing stock
• Handling heavy items safely
• Customer service and sales

• Check planning permission and permitted use for a shop or yard with your council
• Business rates, rent and lease terms can be significant, so check them before committing
• Public liability, stock and buildings or contents insurance
• Keep records of where stock came from to avoid handling stolen goods, and check local rules for second-hand dealers
• Check for lead paint, asbestos and other hazards on older materials
• Heavy stock needs safe handling, storage and sometimes lifting equipment
• Stock can sit unsold for a long time, which ties up cash

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £40,000, depending on the premises, the stock you buy and any lifting equipment. These are estimates. Rent, business rates and lease terms can be significant, so check them first.

Check planning permission and permitted use with your council, plus rent, business rates and lease terms. Also check insurance, local rules for second-hand dealers, records of where stock came from, and hazards such as lead paint and asbestos.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,500 to £12,000, depending on your stock, location and online sales. Expect at least around 30 hours a week. Stock can sit unsold for a long time, which ties up cash.