Driveway and patio paving

Homeowners, landlords and sometimes small builders who sub out hard landscaping.

Fixed quote per job, usually priced by the square metre plus materials and skip or waste costs. Jobs typically take days rather than hours, so a steady pipeline of quotes matters.

• Paving and groundwork experience
• Measuring and quoting accurately
• Physical fitness
• Customer service and reliability

• Public liability insurance, and employer's liability once you take on staff
• Check whether planning permission or permeable surfacing (SuDS) rules apply to front driveways
• Dropped kerb permission from the local council may be needed for new driveway access
• Waste carrier registration if you take away soil or rubble, or use a licensed skip firm
• Take deposits carefully and agree the scope in writing to avoid disputes
• Physical work and weather can delay jobs and cash flow

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £15,000, depending on the tools you buy, your vehicle and how much larger kit you hire in. These are estimates, so cost up your own setup before starting.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £9,000, depending on how many jobs you take and whether you work alone or with a labourer. These are estimates, and weather can delay jobs and cash flow.

Check whether planning permission or permeable surfacing (SuDS) rules apply to front driveways, and whether dropped kerb permission is needed from the council. Also check waste carrier registration for taking away soil or rubble, and insurance.