Dive gear servicing and online sales from home

Local recreational divers, dive clubs, instructors and small dive operators who want gear serviced or bought without a full shop.

Fixed prices for annual gear servicing and parts, plus margin on gear sold online or ordered for customers.

• Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Knowledge of dive gear
• Customer service and basic online selling

• Check whether brands require certified technician training before they sell you parts or honor warranties
• Faulty life-support gear is a serious risk, so check product and professional liability cover and keep service records
• Check for a home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules, and whether your state requires sales tax registration
• Dealer accounts with gear brands may have minimum order or location requirements, so check before promising brands to customers
• Storing and shipping tanks or other pressurized items has rules, so check carrier and local requirements

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your tools, training and starting stock. Dealer accounts with gear brands may have minimum order requirements, so check before promising brands to customers.

Check whether brands require certified technician training before selling you parts or honoring warranties. Also check product and professional liability cover, a home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules, and your state's sales tax registration.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many local divers, clubs and operators you serve. Faulty life-support gear is a serious risk, so keep service records for every job.