Copper roofing and pipework repairs

Homeowners, builders, roofers, architects, churches and owners of period or heritage properties.

Quotes per job or day rate plus materials. Building trade contacts can bring steady repeat work.

• Copper sheet work, soldering and welting
• Working safely at height
• Measuring up and estimating jobs
• Dealing with builders and clients

• Public liability insurance, and check whether your cover includes working at height and hot work
• Hot work on roofs carries a real fire risk, so check insurer and site rules
• Scaffolding or access equipment needs to be safe and may need arranging with the client or a contractor
• Listed buildings may have extra rules on materials and methods, so check with the client and the local council
• Employer's liability insurance if you take on an employee

Startup costs are typically around £4,000 to £15,000, depending on your tools, materials and access equipment, and the insurance you take out. These are estimates, so price your own kit list before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on the jobs you win, their size and the hours you work. The estimate assumes at least about 20 hours a week.

Check that public liability insurance covers working at height and hot work, and note that hot work on roofs carries real fire risk. Also check scaffolding or access arrangements, extra rules on listed buildings with the client and council, and employer's liability if you hire.