Fire safety walkthroughs for small businesses

Small restaurants, shops, daycares, churches, small landlords and gyms that want to avoid inspection failures or insurance problems.

Flat fee per walkthrough, with optional follow-up visits to confirm fixes or help with an employee fire safety plan.

• Background in fire service, inspection, safety or building management
• Attention to detail
• Explaining issues in plain language

• Stay within advice: some states restrict who can inspect, certify or sign off on fire systems, check with your state fire marshal's office
• General liability and professional liability insurance, since businesses may rely on your advice
• Make clear in writing that you are not the official inspector and do not guarantee a pass
• Check your city or county business license rules
• If you work for a fire department or related employer, check for conflict-of-interest rules

Startup costs typically run around $500 to $2,500, depending on the checklists, reporting tools, insurance and basic equipment you choose. It is designed to fit around evenings and weekends.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on how many small businesses and landlords you work with and how many hours you can offer each week.

Check with your state fire marshal's office, as some states restrict who can inspect, certify or sign off on fire systems. Also check insurance, city or county license rules, and conflict-of-interest rules if you work for a fire department. State in writing you are not the official inspector.