Local patio enclosure supply-and-fit firm

Homeowners planning an extension to their living space, often after seeing a display, website or local advert.

Higher-value jobs priced on materials plus labour and a margin, usually with a deposit and stage payments. Repeat work comes from referrals and add-ons such as blinds and heating.

• Sales and design consultation
• Project management and scheduling
• Managing fitters or subcontractors
• Basic bookkeeping and cash flow planning

• Public liability and employer's liability insurance, plus cover for stock and vehicles
• Planning permission and building regulations can apply, so check requirements with the council for each type of job
• Check the permitted use of any unit, and business rates
• Cash flow risk when you buy materials before the customer pays the balance
• Consumer contract rules on deposits, cancellation and guarantees, check with Trading Standards or a trade body
• Work at height and glass handling risks, with a written risk assessment

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £50,000, depending on your unit, display area, vehicles, insurance and materials. These are estimates. Cash flow can be tight when you buy materials before the customer pays the balance.

Monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on how many projects you win and their size. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit. Expect at least around 40 hours a week to run the unit and the jobs.

Check planning permission and building regulations with the council for each type of job, and the permitted use and business rates for your unit. Also check public and employer's liability insurance, consumer contract rules on deposits, and risk assessments for glass and height work.