Drywall hanging, finishing and repair

Homeowners, landlords, property managers, and remodelers or painters who need a drywall specialist for a few jobs.

Quote per job or per square foot for hanging and finishing, with a minimum charge for small repairs. Repeat work from painters, landlords and property managers helps fill your calendar.

• Hanging, taping and finishing drywall to a smooth surface
• Measuring and quoting jobs accurately
• Working neatly in people's homes

• Contractor license rules vary by state, and some set a job-size limit for unlicensed work, so check your state licensing board
• For homes built before 1978, check EPA lead-safe (RRP) rules before disturbing painted surfaces
• Drywall dust is a health risk, so use a proper respirator and dust control
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire help
• Heavy lifting and ladder or stilt work, so plan for injury risk

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on the tools, stilts or lifts, vehicle needs and safety gear you buy. These are estimates, and your total may vary with insurance and whether you buy tools new or used.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many jobs you take, their size and how steadily you work. These are estimates, not guarantees, and they assume at least about 15 hours of work a week.

Contractor license rules vary by state, and some set a job-size limit for unlicensed work, so check your state licensing board. Also check EPA lead-safe (RRP) rules for homes built before 1978, and arrange general liability insurance.