Pergola and carport builder

Homeowners who want shade, outdoor living space or covered parking.

A fixed price per project covering materials and labor, usually with a deposit upfront and the balance on completion.

• Carpentry and building skills
• Reading plans and measuring accurately
• Quoting jobs and costing materials
• Customer service

• Many states require a contractor license above a certain job value, check your state's licensing board
• Building permits, setbacks and HOA rules often apply to attached or larger structures
• General liability insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire helpers
• Structures must handle local wind and snow loads, check local code requirements
• Take deposits carefully and use written contracts to avoid disputes over materials costs

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the tools and equipment you already own, insurance and how much material you front. Written quotes and careful deposits help manage materials costs.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many jobs you take, their size and your pricing. That is revenue before materials and other costs. You might start at about 15 hours a week.

Check your state's licensing board, since many states require a contractor license above a certain job value. Also check building permits, setbacks and HOA rules, local wind and snow load code requirements, and general liability and workers' compensation insurance.