How to start a mobile boat repair and servicing business

Private boat owners, small marinas, boat clubs and charter or hire operators.

Hourly or day rate plus parts, with fixed prices for standard jobs such as an annual engine service. Repeat seasonal work builds a steady client list.

• Marine engine servicing and fault finding
• Basic fibreglass, wood or metal repair
• Reliable and good at quoting jobs
• Safe working around water and lifting

• Public liability insurance, plus cover for working on customers' boats and for your tools
• Marina or boatyard rules on outside contractors, check whether they need to approve or charge you
• Disposal of oils, fuel, antifouling and other waste, check what permits or waste carrier registration you need
• Risk of damage to a customer's boat or engine, so agree the work in writing first
• Work is seasonal in many areas, so plan cash for winter

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your van, tools and equipment, and the insurance you need to work on customers' boats.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on how many jobs you take, your area and the time of year. Work is seasonal in many areas, so plan your cash for winter.

Check public liability insurance, including cover for working on customers' boats and for your tools. Check marina or boatyard rules for outside contractors, and what permits or waste carrier registration you need for disposing of oils, fuel and antifouling.