Small-Projects building contractor

Homeowners, landlords, property managers and real estate agents needing repairs before a sale or new tenant.

Fixed quotes or hourly rates for small jobs, plus a markup on materials and subcontractor work.

• Hands-on carpentry or general building skills
• Quoting small jobs accurately
• Reliable scheduling and follow-up
• Basic bookkeeping

• Many states set a dollar limit under which a license may not be needed, and others require one for any work, so check your state board
• Electrical, plumbing and HVAC work usually needs a separately licensed professional, so do not do it yourself unless licensed
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation if you hire helpers
• Physical work and injury risk, so plan for downtime and your own health coverage
• Permits may still be needed for structural, deck or fence work, check with your city or county

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the tools and vehicle you already have, insurance and how you find your first customers. Working mostly solo keeps early costs lower.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the type of jobs you take, your pricing, how many hours you work and how steady your bookings are. Revenue is not profit, so account for materials and subcontractors.

Check with your state board, since many states set a dollar limit under which a license may not be needed and others require one for any work. Electrical, plumbing and HVAC usually need a separately licensed professional. Also check city or county permits for structural, deck or fence work, and insurance.