Car security fitting workshop

Private car owners, used car dealers, small fleet operators, and customers sent by insurers or tracker companies.

Fixed prices for fittings and upgrades, plus repair and servicing work. Regular supply to dealers and fleets can give steady volumes, and you can sell the products you fit.

• Vehicle electrics and diagnostics
• Neat, reliable fitting work
• Dealing with trade customers
• Basic business admin and stock control

• Public liability, tools and premises insurance, and cover for customers' vehicles while they are in your care (check 'garage keepers' cover)
• Planning permission and the lease must allow vehicle work, check with your council and landlord
• Business rates and rent are fixed costs, so make sure you have enough regular work before committing
• Waste such as old batteries and electronics needs proper disposal, check the rules for waste carrying and storage
• Check which approvals insurers expect for alarms and trackers

Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on the unit, equipment and stock you need and your insurance. Rent and business rates are fixed costs, so check you have enough regular work first.

Check that planning and your lease allow vehicle work, and that your insurance covers customers' vehicles in your care, such as garage keepers' cover. Also check the rules on waste such as old batteries and electronics, and which approvals insurers expect.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on your customers, the work you take on and trade relationships with dealers and fleets. The idea assumes at least around 30 hours a week.