Start a mobile AV hire and operation business for events
Supply and run sound, screens and lighting for local events, from small conferences to parties.
- £2k-10k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
Official data
2,469 UK companies in this field, 32% registered in the last 2 years
SIC 77291 “Renting and leasing of media entertainment equipment”. Source: Companies House, November 2026.
What it is
You own a starter kit of speakers, microphones, screens or projectors and basic lighting, then deliver, set up and run it at venues. You stay on site to operate it for the event.
Your first three steps
- Choose a niche such as conferences, weddings or community events and price a starter kit to match
- Buy or finance a small core kit and practise setting it up and packing it down quickly
- Contact local venues and event planners, offer a discounted first event and ask for a review
Who pays
Event organisers, small businesses, charities, schools, venues and private clients hosting parties or functions.
How it makes money
A fixed fee per event covering kit hire and your time as operator, with extras for travel, set-up time or extra equipment.
Skills that help
- Setting up and testing AV equipment
- Problem-solving under time pressure
- Clear communication with organisers and venues
Watch out for
- Public liability insurance and cover for your equipment while in transit and on site
- Portable appliance testing (PAT) for hired electrical kit, check what venues expect
- Safe lifting, cable management and working at height if rigging anything
- A suitable vehicle, and check your van insurance covers business use
- Music licensing at events is usually the venue's or organiser's responsibility, check who holds it
Deep research report · UK
Everything you need to start: mobile AV hire and operation for events
Researched with live web search for United Kingdom: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to start a mobile AV hire business?
Startup costs are typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on how much sound, screen and lighting kit you buy, plus insurance and a suitable vehicle. Treat these as estimates and price your own kit list.
How much can I earn hiring out AV equipment for events?
Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on how many events you take, the kit you can offer and whether you operate it on site. Treat these as estimates, not guaranteed income.
What do I need to check before starting an AV hire business?
Check public liability insurance and cover for your kit in transit and on site, PAT testing expectations for hired electrical kit, safe lifting and working at height, and van insurance for business use. Also check who holds the music licence at events.
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