Mobile pre-purchase car inspector

Used car buyers, especially people buying from private sellers, out-of-town buyers, and families who want a second opinion before a big purchase.

A flat fee per inspection, with higher prices for trucks, luxury or specialty vehicles and for travel outside your core area. Some inspectors add rush or weekend rates.

• Solid car knowledge, ideally from mechanic or dealership work
• Clear, honest report writing
• Comfortable talking to buyers and sellers

• General liability and professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, check what covers a missed defect
• Make your report wording clear about what you did and did not check, to limit disputes
• Check your city or county for a business license, and whether your state has any rules for inspectors
• Avoid conflicts of interest, such as taking referral money from dealers you inspect for

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your tools, insurance and how you set up your vehicle and reporting. Treat this as an estimate and price your own setup before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on how many inspections you book and your hours. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

Check general liability and professional liability insurance, including what covers a missed defect. Check your city or county for a business license and whether your state has inspector rules. Word your reports clearly about what you did and did not check, and avoid dealer referral money.