On-site paint stripping for homes and trades

Homeowners renovating period homes, landlords, decorators, builders and property restorers.

Day rate, hourly rate or fixed price per job. Working for decorators and builders can give steady repeat days.

• Physical stamina
• Safe use of heat tools and chemicals
• Neat, protective site work
• Estimating time and materials

• Lead paint risk in older homes, so check HSE guidance and whether testing or special methods are needed before you start
• Heat guns can start fires, so check safe working practices and keep an extinguisher to hand
• Waste from chemical stripping and paint scrapings may have special disposal rules, so check with your council
• Public liability insurance, and employer's liability if you take on staff
• A van or reliable vehicle to carry kit and a safe way to store chemicals

Startup costs are typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on the tools, chemicals and vehicle you need. These are estimates, so price your own kit, protective gear and insurance before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on the jobs you win, your pricing and how many hours you work. These are estimates rather than guarantees, based on at least 15 hours a week.

Check HSE guidance on lead paint risk and whether testing or special methods are needed before you start. Also check safe heat gun use, disposal rules for chemical waste with your council, and your insurance.