Start a small car servicing workshop

Local drivers wanting a cheaper, friendlier alternative to a main dealer, plus small businesses with vans and fleet cars.

Labour charged for each service plus a margin on parts, with repeat customers coming back yearly and between MOTs.

• Vehicle servicing and diagnostics
• Quoting and customer communication
• Basic bookkeeping and stock ordering

• Planning permission and permitted use of the unit, check with your council before signing a lease
• Motor trade insurance, public liability and employer's liability once you hire
• Environmental rules for storing and disposing of oil, coolant and waste, check with the Environment Agency (or the equivalent in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland)
• Fixed costs such as rent and business rates, check whether small business rate relief applies
• Keeping service records and using suitable parts so customers' warranties are not affected

Startup costs are typically around £10,000 to £40,000, depending on the unit, lift or ramp, tools and stock. Treat these as estimates and get quotes for rent, equipment and insurance before signing a lease.

Check planning permission and permitted use of the unit before signing a lease. Also check motor trade, public liability and employer's liability insurance, environmental rules for oil, coolant and waste, and whether small business rate relief applies.

Monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £20,000, depending on location, pricing and how busy the ramp is. Fixed costs such as rent and business rates come out of that, and you should plan for at least 35 hours a week.