Karaoke kit hire from home

People hosting birthdays, hen and stag parties, family gatherings and street parties, plus the occasional small pub or club.

A flat hire fee per night or weekend, with optional extras such as delivery, a set-up visit, extra microphones and a refundable deposit held against damage.

• Basic sound and cable set-up
• Reliable booking and diary keeping
• Friendly customer service

• Public liability insurance, and check whether your policy covers hired-out equipment and theft or damage
• Electrical safety: look into PAT testing and keep records of checks on every item
• Song licensing: check who is responsible for music licences when the kit is used at public or business events
• Check your home insurance, landlord or mortgage lender allows storing business stock at home

Startup costs are estimated at typically around £400 to £2,000, depending on how many karaoke machines and microphones you buy, the quality of the kit and your insurance. Starting with a small stock keeps you at the lower end.

Monthly revenue is typically around £150 to £1,000 as an estimate, depending on how many machines you own, your hire prices and how often they are booked. Time needed is typically at least 3 hours a week.

Check public liability insurance and whether it covers hired-out kit, theft and damage. Look into PAT testing and keep records for every item. Check who is responsible for music licences at public or business events, and whether your home insurance, landlord or lender allows stock at home.