Water softener supply and fitting business

Homeowners in hard water areas, landlords, small businesses such as cafes, salons and guest houses, and sometimes local plumbers who prefer to pass the work on.

Profit on the unit plus a fitting charge, then repeat income from annual service visits, parts and salt deliveries.

• Plumbing skills or willingness to train
• Explaining technical products simply
• Reliable and tidy on customers' premises
• Basic quoting and record keeping

• Fitting must meet UK water regulations, so check what notification or competent person scheme membership you need
• Public liability insurance, and employer's liability if you take on staff
• Check what guarantees your suppliers give and what you promise customers about the effect of softened water
• Check how drainage connections and electrical supply are handled, and bring in qualified trades where needed
• Check with your local water company about any rules on installation or notification
• Heavy units to lift, so plan for safe handling

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your van, tools, stock and training needs. These are estimates, and your own figure will vary with how much stock you hold and what you already own.

Check before you start. Fitting must meet UK water regulations, so find out what notification or competent person scheme membership you need, and check with your local water company about any installation or notification rules. Also check your insurance requirements.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £9,000, depending on how many units you fit and how much servicing and salt work you build up. That is an estimate of revenue, not profit, and the work usually needs at least 25 hours a week.