Individuals providing ‘odd job’ DIY services are one of the great success stories of the 21st century and it is not hard to see why. People are working longer and longer and jobs around the house just do not get done. Some jobs need a little expertise or special tools and people don’t have the skills necessary. Now you could call in a professional contractor but that will cost you a fortune, so call in an odd job person at a fraction of the price………….

If you have a reasonable amount of experience handling DIY jobs around the house and garden then this is the job for you. You need little more than a box of tools and some determination to make this business work.

Price your services at about £10.00 per hour. Charge extra for materials. Make extra money buying materials at trade prices but charging customers the retail price. Advise the client if you see any other jobs that need attention as part of the service. (You may want to charge extra for out-of-hours/ week end / emergency jobs.)

Put together a list of your prices covering small jobs such as plumbing in a washing machine, fitting a smoke alarm, changing a tap washer, putting up an indoor light, extending a telephone lead, tiling, changing a lock, creosoting a fence, re-grouting tiles and so on. Advertise yourself as being able to turn your hand to almost anything, but keep well clear of gas appliances and domestic mains electricity, unless you are qualified in this field. Some jobs are seasonal so once you have finished a seasonal job remember to arrange with the client then and there to do the job the next time it is required.

Word of mouth will be your best way of getting new business but you are advised to have business cards and small advertising flyers to promote yourself. Try to concentrate in your local neighbourhood, at least to start off with and build from there. When you are starting off, remember that no job is too small. Customers may start you off on something basic to see how you work - so every job is really an advert for your services.

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