Wheelchair repair and servicing workshop

Wheelchair users, families, care homes, community equipment providers and mobility shops that outsource repairs.

Labour and parts per job, annual service plans, and possibly refurbished chairs or accessories sold on.

• Mechanical and electrical fault-finding
• Workshop organisation and stock control
• Building trust with carers and care providers

• Public liability insurance, plus cover for customers' equipment while in your care
• Check how rules on medical devices and manufacturer warranties apply to your repairs and refurbishments
• Check business rates, planning use class and lease terms for your unit
• Keep lithium batteries stored and charged safely, and check fire safety requirements
• Rent adds fixed costs, so build up work before committing to a long lease

Startup costs are typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on your unit, workbench and tools, and the parts stock you hold. Rent adds fixed costs, so consider building up work before committing to a long lease.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £9,000, depending on workload, pricing and whether you serve individual users, care providers or mobility shops that outsource repairs. It typically needs around 25 hours a week or more.

Things to check: public liability insurance and cover for customers' equipment in your care; how medical device rules and manufacturer warranties apply; business rates, planning use class and lease terms; and safe lithium battery storage and fire safety.