Motorhome detailing and restoration bay
Rent a large unit or covered bay to offer deep cleans, paint correction and restoration.
- £6k-25k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
What it is
A workshop or covered bay big enough for motorhomes, offering in-depth work such as paint correction, ceramic coatings, oxidation removal, interior deep cleans and damp-smell treatment.
Your first three steps
- Get trained in paint correction and coatings, ideally with experience on large vehicles
- Look for a unit or bay with high doors, drainage and power, and check the lease and permitted use
- Sign up a few dealers and storage sites for trade work to fill quiet days
Who pays
Motorhome owners wanting a high-end finish, dealerships preparing stock for sale, hire companies and owners selling their vehicle.
How it makes money
Higher-priced packages per vehicle (often a day or more of work), plus trade work for dealers and add-ons such as protective coatings.
Skills that help
- Paint correction and polishing
- Quoting and planning jobs
- Customer service
- Managing bookings and a workspace
Watch out for
- Check planning and permitted use for the unit, and any rules on trade effluent and washing waste with your council or water company
- Public liability insurance and cover for customers' vehicles while in your care
- Rent, business rates and utilities are fixed costs, so make sure bookings can cover them
- Storing chemicals safely and following COSHH guidance
- Demand is seasonal, with spring and early summer busiest
Deep research report · UK
Everything you need to start: motorhome detailing and restoration bay
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 motorhome detailing business?
Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £6,000 to £25,000, depending on the unit or bay, equipment and products. Monthly revenue is typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on how many jobs you book and what services you offer.
What rules should I check before opening a motorhome detailing bay?
Check planning and permitted use for the unit, and any rules on trade effluent and washing waste with your council or water company. Also check public liability insurance, cover for customers' vehicles, and safe chemical storage under COSHH guidance.
How much time does motorhome detailing take, and is it seasonal?
Estimates suggest at least around 30 hours a week. Demand is seasonal, with spring and early summer busiest. Rent, business rates and utilities are fixed costs, so check that your bookings can cover them before committing to a unit.
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