Reconditioned mowers and servicing from home

Budget-minded homeowners, landlords and people wanting their existing mower serviced.

Margin between the purchase and repair cost and the resale price, plus fixed-price servicing and sharpening.

• Small engine and electric mower repair
• Spotting good-value machines to buy
• Online listings and photos

• Check whether your home insurance, landlord or mortgage lender allows business use and storage of machines and fuel
• Public liability and product liability insurance for machines you sell or repair
• Consumer rights, as sellers must describe items accurately and deal with faults
• Safe storage of petrol and oil, and disposal of waste oil and scrap (check with your council and waste rules)
• Noise and space for neighbours, so check any restrictions at home

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on the tools you already have, how many machines you buy to repair, and your insurance. Spotting good-value machines to buy is a key skill in keeping costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £2,500, depending on how many machines you repair and sell and whether you add local servicing and blade sharpening. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

Check whether your home insurance, landlord or mortgage lender allows business use and storage of machines and fuel. Also check public liability and product liability insurance, consumer rights on accurate descriptions, waste oil disposal, and any noise concerns for neighbours.