Residential gas line and appliance service

Homeowners, landlords, property managers and real estate agents who need work done before a sale or rental.

Service call fees plus hourly labor or flat prices per job, with materials marked up. Repeat work from landlords and property managers can fill the calendar.

• Trade training and licensed experience with gas piping
• Careful with safety and code details
• Clear, honest communication with customers
• Basic quoting and scheduling

• Gas work usually needs a state or local license, and the type of license differs by state and city, so check your licensing board before taking any job
• Permit and inspection requirements for gas work, check with your city or county building department
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation once you hire, plus a contractor bond if your state requires one
• Gas leaks and carbon monoxide are real safety risks, so follow code and manufacturer instructions on every job
• Business vehicle insurance for your van

Startup costs are typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your tools, van and insurance. Treat this as an estimate. Also budget for general liability insurance, business vehicle insurance and a contractor bond if your state requires one.

Monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $16,000, depending on how many jobs you take on and your pricing. These are estimates, not guarantees. You could start at around 25 hours a week.

Gas work usually needs a state or local license, and the type differs by state and city, so check your licensing board before any job. Also check permit and inspection requirements with your city or county building department.