Solo Deck Builder for Local Homeowners

Homeowners, landlords and small property managers who want more outdoor living space or need a worn deck replaced.

A fixed quote per project, based on deck size, materials and labor. Many builders take a deposit up front and stage payments as work progresses.

• Carpentry and framing
• Reading plans and measuring accurately
• Quoting jobs and managing customers

• Many states and localities require a contractor license for work over a certain dollar value, check the rules where you work
• Most decks need a building permit and inspection, so confirm requirements with your local building department
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire anyone
• Structural safety: poorly attached ledger boards and footings are a common cause of deck failures
• Weather delays and material price changes can cut into your margin, so build them into quotes

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the tools you already own, your vehicle and the insurance you carry. Material price changes can affect margins, so build them into your quotes.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many projects you complete, their size and the materials used. Weather delays can slow work. These are revenue estimates, before materials and other costs.

Many states and localities require a contractor license above a certain dollar value, and most decks need a building permit and inspection. Check both where you work, plus general liability insurance and workers' compensation once you hire anyone.