Domestic Appliance Repair Service
Repairs to washing machines, cookers, dishwashers and tumble dryers in customers' homes, charged per callout plus parts.
Replacing a washing machine costs hundreds of pounds, so a £90 repair is an easy yes for most households. Common faults (pumps, belts, elements, door seals) repeat constantly and parts are cheap and widely stocked. Manufacturers' own service plans leave long waits; a local independent can attend within days. Letting agents and landlords provide steady repeat work across rental stock. Gross margin figures are planning estimates of revenue minus direct costs (materials, consumables, fuel and per-job expenses); they exclude the owner's own labour, so treat them as a guide to job economics rather than take-home pay.
- Starting capital: 1200–3500 GBP
- Total starting capital: 2250 GBP
- Setup: 3-4 weeks
- Gross margin: 70-80%
- Business model: Fixed callout fee plus labour and marked-up parts for home appliance repairs.
- Category: Repair Services
Risks
- Diagnostic risk: Time spent on unfixable machines earns little.
- Stock tying up cash: Keeping common spares in the van costs money.
- Warranty expectations: Customers expect guarantees on your repairs.
Costs
- Equipment — Multimeter, hand tools, pullers and specialist spanners — 900 GBP
- Parts stock — Van stock of common pumps, elements, belts and seals — 700 GBP
- Compliance — Public liability insurance and Part P awareness course — 350 GBP
- Sales push — Website, Google Business Profile and leaflet drop — 300 GBP