Generator shop with workshop

Homeowners, tradespeople, farms, event organisers, small businesses and campers or caravan owners.

Margin on generator and accessory sales, workshop labour and parts, service contracts, and installation work either done by you or passed on to a partner electrician.

• Product knowledge on power output and sizing
• Engine repair and workshop skills
• Stock control and pricing
• Retail and customer service

• Storing fuel, oil and batteries on premises: check fire safety, insurance and any council or fire service requirements
• Public liability, product liability and stock cover, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Consumer rights on returns and warranties for goods sold, including distance sales if you sell online
• Standby installations and grid connections should be done by competent electricians; check who is responsible for the work and certification
• Cashflow tied up in stock, and seasonal peaks around storms and winter outages
• Noise and emissions rules for any testing you do at the premises

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the premises, the stock you hold and how you fit out your workshop. Cashflow tied up in stock is worth planning for.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on sales, repairs and the stock you carry. The estimates assume from around 35 hours a week, and demand can peak around storms and winter outages.

Check fire safety, insurance and any council or fire service requirements for storing fuel, oil and batteries. Also check consumer rights on returns and warranties, who is responsible for standby installations by electricians, and noise and emissions rules for testing.