Small livery yard on rented land

Horse owners who lack their own land, including leisure riders, families with ponies and people who compete locally.

Monthly livery fees per horse, with extra charges for services such as mucking out, turnout, rugging or hay and bedding. Income depends on keeping stables filled.

• Sound horse care knowledge
• Managing land, fencing and buildings
• Dealing calmly with owners and their different expectations

• Planning permission and permitted use of the land, check with your council
• Business rates and whether the land or buildings are liable
• Public liability and care, custody and control insurance for horses in your care
• Livery contracts that cover injury, unpaid fees and notice periods
• Long, physical days, with cover needed for holidays and illness
• Rules differ across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so check locally

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £5,000 to £40,000, depending on the land and buildings you rent, stables, fencing, arena access and insurance. The range is wide because yards vary in size and in the facilities already in place.

Check planning permission and permitted use of the land with your council, and whether business rates apply. Arrange public liability and care, custody and control insurance, write livery contracts covering injury, unpaid fees and notice, and check local rules in your part of the UK.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how many horses you keep and whether you offer DIY or part livery. The estimates assume at least about 30 hours a week, and you will need cover for holidays and illness.