Mobile joiner: doors, stairs and fitted timber

Homeowners, landlords, letting agents and small builders who need a reliable joiner for finishing work.

Day rate or fixed price per job, plus materials. Repeat work from builders and agents helps fill your diary.

• Accurate measuring and cutting
• Using hand and power tools safely
• Reading a job and pricing it fairly
• Tidy, reliable customer service

• Public liability insurance, and tools cover in case of theft from your van
• Replacing windows and doors may fall under Building Regulations, so check whether you need to register with a competent person scheme or use building control
• Work in older homes may involve asbestos or lead paint, check the safety rules before you start
• Dust, noise and manual handling put strain on your body, so plan for dust extraction and protective gear

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £2,000 to £8,000, depending on tools, insurance and how you set up. Monthly revenue is estimated at around £1,500 to £5,000, depending on how many jobs you take and how you price them.

Check public liability insurance and tools cover. Replacing windows and doors may fall under Building Regulations, so check whether you need a competent person scheme or building control. Work in older homes may involve asbestos or lead paint, so check safety rules first.

Useful skills include accurate measuring and cutting, safe use of hand and power tools, fair pricing and tidy customer service. The estimate is at least around 15 hours a week. Dust, noise and manual handling strain the body, so plan protective gear.