1. Earthmoving
Starting an earthmoving business can be highly profitable due to the demand for excavation and site preparation in construction, landscaping, and infrastructure projects. However, it requires significant capital investment in equipment like bulldozers, backhoes, and excavators. Setting up the business can be complex, as you’ll need specialized skills and knowledge, as well as compliance with safety and environmental regulations. While the workload is often steady, the business requires ongoing maintenance of heavy machinery and may be influenced by economic cycles in construction.
2. Washing Windows
A window washing business is relatively easy to start with low overhead costs, especially if you only need basic cleaning tools like ladders, squeegees, and cleaning solutions. Profitability can be quite good, particularly for residential or commercial contracts, and repeat customers are common. The work itself is physically demanding and often seasonal, with higher demand in warmer months. This type of business can be run as a solo venture or scaled up with a small team, making it an excellent option for entrepreneurs with limited capital.
3. Lawn Mowing
Lawn mowing is one of the easiest and most affordable businesses to start, requiring little more than a lawnmower, trimmer, and vehicle for transportation. Profitability depends on the size and frequency of the lawns you maintain, with potential for regular, recurring income. It’s also a great business for expanding by adding other lawn care services like edging, fertilizing, and garden maintenance. The downside is that it’s physically demanding and often weather-dependent, but overall, it offers low start-up costs and good potential for steady growth.
4. Painting
Starting a painting business can be highly profitable, particularly in residential and commercial properties where painting is needed regularly for maintenance and aesthetics. With a relatively low initial investment in tools and supplies, this business is relatively easy to set up. Profits can be substantial if you can build a strong reputation for quality work. While the market is competitive, offering specialized services such as eco-friendly paints or custom designs can set you apart. However, it does require attention to detail and can be physically demanding.
5. Fencing
A fencing business involves installing, repairing, and maintaining different types of fences (wood, metal, etc.). This business is in demand in both residential and commercial sectors, especially as people seek privacy, security, or boundary delineation. The start-up costs can vary depending on the materials and tools needed. With a moderate level of expertise required for installation and maintenance, this business can be quite profitable, especially in areas where construction and development are ongoing. The downside is that it may involve physically intensive labor and working in various weather conditions.
6. Tip Runs
A tip run business (or junk removal service) is a growing niche with relatively low start-up costs. It involves collecting and disposing of unwanted household or commercial items. Profitability can be high, particularly if you target large-scale commercial contracts or manage to build a regular client base. You’ll need a reliable vehicle, such as a truck or van, and possibly access to a waste disposal facility. The business can be expanded by offering additional services like recycling or donation drop-offs. It is labor-intensive and can be affected by local regulations regarding waste disposal.
7. Backhoe Trench Digging
Backhoe trench digging is a specialized service often required for utility installation, landscaping, and construction projects. While the start-up costs can be significant due to the expense of renting or purchasing heavy machinery, the potential for high profitability is substantial, especially for large-scale projects. This type of business requires technical expertise to operate machinery safely and efficiently, and you will likely need relevant licensing or certifications. Projects tend to be well-paid, but the business is somewhat niche and may experience fluctuations based on construction cycles.
8. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a service that requires a relatively low investment in equipment and can be started quickly. The business involves cleaning outdoor surfaces such as driveways, walls, decks, and fences using high-pressure water. Profitability is good, especially in areas where exterior cleaning services are in high demand. This type of business can be run on a part-time basis or scaled up to offer additional services like graffiti removal or roof cleaning. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy hands-on work, though it can be physically demanding and weather-dependent.
9. Gutter Cleaning
Gutter cleaning is a highly specialized and essential service that provides excellent profitability, especially for homeowners and property managers. With minimal start-up costs for basic tools (ladders, gloves, and safety equipment), it’s an easy business to set up. The service is in demand year-round, although autumn and spring are peak seasons when gutters fill with debris. As it involves working at height, safety measures are essential, but this business offers steady income with the potential for repeat customers. It’s a great option for entrepreneurs looking for a low-cost, low-overhead business.
10. Roof Sealing
Roof sealing services involve applying a protective coating to extend the lifespan of roofs, reduce energy costs, and prevent water damage. This service can be highly profitable, especially if you target commercial buildings or homes in areas with extreme weather conditions. The initial investment is relatively low compared to other trades, and the business can be run with minimal staff. Specializing in eco-friendly, reflective coatings or offering roof inspections can help set you apart. However, it does involve working at heights, which requires proper safety protocols and training.
11. Tiling
Tiling is a skill-based trade that can be highly profitable due to the demand for floor, wall, and kitchen tiling in residential and commercial spaces. While the start-up costs for tools and materials are moderate, the work can be physically demanding and time-consuming, especially for intricate patterns or larger installations. Tilers can build strong customer relationships by providing high-quality work and may also offer services in other areas like grouting or waterproofing. The market is competitive, but demand remains steady, especially in home renovation projects.
12. Driveway Concreting
Driveway concreting is a highly profitable business due to the high demand for durable, aesthetically pleasing driveways in residential areas. Setting up the business requires some capital investment in tools, equipment, and materials, but the potential for large contracts makes this a lucrative option. The business can be labor-intensive, requiring expertise in mixing and laying concrete, as well as working in various weather conditions. The need for concrete driveways tends to remain steady, particularly in new housing developments or for home renovations.
13. Kitchen Refurbishing
Kitchen refurbishing involves updating or renovating existing kitchens, a service highly sought after by homeowners looking to improve the function and aesthetic of their cooking spaces. This business requires a good understanding of design and craftsmanship, as well as knowledge of plumbing, cabinetry, and electrical work. Profitability is strong, as kitchen renovations often command premium prices, especially in higher-end markets. While the start-up costs for tools and materials can be significant, there’s a steady demand for kitchen refurbishing, especially as people tend to invest in home improvements over time.
14. Floor Sanding
Floor sanding, especially for wooden floors, can be a profitable business. The service is sought after by homeowners, property managers, and businesses who need to restore or refurbish old wooden floors. This business requires specialized equipment such as floor sanders and can be labor-intensive, but it also offers the potential for high-margin projects. Start-up costs can be moderate, and profitability is high if you target high-end properties or commercial clients. The demand for floor sanding tends to be steady, particularly in older homes or buildings with hardwood floors.
15. Carpet Cleaning
Carpet cleaning is a popular service with steady demand, especially in residential and commercial properties. It can be easily started with a relatively low investment in cleaning equipment and supplies. The business is profitable, particularly in urban areas where high foot traffic leads to dirtier carpets. Offering eco-friendly or specialized cleaning services can help differentiate your business. The work is physically demanding, and the business can be seasonal depending on weather conditions, but there’s a strong potential for repeat customers if you deliver high-quality results.
16. Pool Maintenance
Pool maintenance is an essential service for homeowners with swimming pools, offering steady, reliable income. The business typically involves tasks such as cleaning, checking chemical levels, and ensuring that pool equipment is functioning properly. Start-up costs are relatively low, but you’ll need specialized knowledge and equipment for cleaning and maintaining pools. Profitability is high, especially for businesses that offer year-round service or focus on high-end properties. Additionally, pool maintenance is a great recurring business model with loyal clients who rely on regular upkeep.
