Thinking about joining Oneflare to grow your business? Every week, thousands of Aussies use it to find trusted local experts for everything from home renovations to event services. For small businesses, it is a proven way to connect with real customers who are ready to hire.
However, securing steady bookings on Oneflare requires more than just signing up. It comes from getting every step of the customer experience right, from your first quote to that all-important review.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up your profile for success, quote confidently, deliver great results, and earn reviews that keep the work flowing.
We’ll also walk you through what the most successful Oneflare businesses do consistently and how you can use those same steps to grow your reputation and book more jobs.
Step 1: Register your business
Note: Feel free to skip to step 2 if your business is already registered.
The first step is to register your business on Oneflare. Your details are used to verify your business so customers know they’re hiring a legitimate professional.
Oneflare also verifies customers through phone and email, creating a trusted environment for both sides. Make sure all information is accurate and complete to help your business appear in more searches and attract quality leads.
When registering your business, you’ll need to provide:
Completing your Oneflare profile helps you stand out and builds instant trust with customers. It also allows Oneflare to verify your business quickly, giving you a verified badge that shows clients you are genuine and ready for work.
The more complete your profile, the more likely you are to appear in search results and win jobs. You can include:
Business logo
Business description
Proof of Public Liability Insurance
Relevant licences or certificates
You can also enhance your profile by including a portfolio or a link to your professional website that showcases your work in action. Upload photos of your team on the job, before-and-after examples, and finished results. Don’t forget to include short captions that describe the task or highlight specific outcomes.
Step 3: Adjust your lead settings
Setting up your lead preferences properly saves time and helps you generate more leads that match your trade, budget, and location. Doing so means fewer irrelevant requests and more chances to quote on work you actually want.
To get started:
Choose the exact services you provide to get matched with the most relevant leads
Define the suburbs or regions you want to work in
When a customer submits a request that matches your preferences, you’ll get notified through the Oneflare for Business app (highly recommended for instant updates), email alerts, and your Leads Dashboard.
Each lead includes helpful details such as the service type, location, timeframe, budget, and any photos or descriptions provided by the customer.
Tip: Avoid ticking every category to acquire more leads. You can always update your lead settings later if you decide to branch out or add more services.
Step 4: Start quoting on jobs
Many businesses reuse the same quote to save time, but customers can spot a generic message instantly. It signals that you haven’t taken the time to understand their job, which makes it easy for them to scroll past. A concise, tailored quote that addresses their needs demonstrates genuine interest and greatly improves your chances of being selected.
When personalising a quote:
Give a transparent price range and explain what might affect the total cost.
Explain the next steps, such as a site visit or a quick call after acceptance.
Ask polite, specific questions if any details are missing from the job post before confirming your quote.
With many businesses competing for the same job, it may take some time for customers to respond. If that happens, send a short, friendly follow-up such as “Just checking if you had any questions about my quote” to remind them you’re available and interested.
Step 5: Confirm details and plan ahead
Before you start any job, confirm the key details with your customer to prevent misunderstandings, save time, and show you’re organised. Double-check the job scope, location, timing, and any special requirements so everyone’s on the same page.
If needed, arrange a quick call or site visit to clarify any details that may impact the work. Use this chance to confirm access, parking, and materials. Remember, clear communication upfront helps you plan properly and deliver precisely what the customer expects.
Step 6: Get the job done right
Once the job is confirmed, focus on delivering quality work and a smooth experience for your customer. Arrive on time, come prepared with the right tools or materials, and communicate if anything changes.
During the job, focus on being reliable and easy to work with. For instance, let the customer know if you’re running late or if anything unexpected comes up. Always protect their space by laying down drop sheets, moving furniture carefully, and cleaning up before you leave.
Step 7: Ask for reviews
Reviews are one of the most effective ways to build trust and attract more customers. In fact, around 98% of consumers read reviews before deciding who to hire. With this said, it’s highly recommended to ask for feedback after every completed job.
To do this, copy your unique review link and send it to customers via text or email, or share it on social media using the provided buttons. Once you start receiving reviews, check your public profile to see how your business appears to potential customers.
If you come across a negative review, it’s recommended to follow up with a thoughtful and positive response.
Tip:If you believe a review is unfair or malicious, contact Oneflare Support on 13 18 18, and our team will investigate.
Step 8: Repeat and refine
After completing 5-10 jobs, you’ll start noticing patterns you can leverage for growth. You might discover certain services consistently provide better margins, specific neighbourhoods yield more repeat customers, or particular phrasings in your quotes lead to higher acceptance rates.
These insights should directly shape how you present yourself on the platform. Refine your quote templates to emphasise language that converts well, update your profile to highlight the services that bring you the best returns, and showcase photos from your most profitable job types.
Start growing your business on Oneflare
As you can see, the difference between struggling for work and having a booked-out calendar often comes down to how you approach each step of the customer journey.
By consistently implementing these, you’ll win more jobs on Oneflare and build a reputation that keeps customers returning and referring you to others.
Running a successful business on Oneflare means more than just great work. Consistency, trust, and going the extra mile for every customer all play a huge, vital part. Whether you’re nailing quotes left and right or collecting great reviews, your efforts deserve recognition.
That’s exactly what the Oneflare Business Awards are all about: celebrating the pros who’ve earned their reputation through hard work and quality service.
Every year, we spotlight businesses that stand out in their industry and area. Winning an award gives you a powerful badge that lets potential customers know you’re the real deal.
Ready to see what it takes to join the winners’ circle? Let’s review what each award means and how to position yourself to win.
What are Oneflare Business Awards?
The Business Awards recognise excellence across two categories: Most Hired and Top Rated. Each award highlights different strengths and gives your profile an edge that converts browsers into customers.
Most Hired Business Award
The Most Hired Award recognises the business with the highest percentage of customers marking you as “Hired” in your industry and local area.
In other words, more customers are choosing you over your competitors, proving that your quotes stand out, your responses inspire trust, and your service delivers exactly what customers need.
With the Most Hired badge, you:
Show you’re the most in-demand provider in your category
Prove your quotes and responses consistently convert to jobs
Gain visibility that makes it easier to secure even more work
Top Rated Business Award
The Top Rated Award celebrates businesses that consistently deliver outstanding customer experiences, maintaining an average rating of 4.5 stars or higher throughout the year.
With only one winner per industry in each state or territory, this badge is a mark of excellence recognised by real customers.
With the Top Rated badge, you:
Prove your service consistently meets or exceeds customer expectations
Build your profile with strong, trustworthy reviews
Show new clients they can expect the same 5-star experience
Michael’s team provides small businesses with IT support, managed services, and website development. They are driven by the desire to help clients grow with enterprise-level solutions at affordable prices, even if it means working long hours to solve complex problems.
Winning a Oneflare Business Award gave them instant credibility:
“It shows we’re reliable, that Oneflare trusts us, and that we’re true experts backed by certifications and quality assurance.”
Success advice: Michael believes success comes from being consistent, acting quickly on opportunities, and tailoring pricing to suit different budgets. He also emphasises the importance of patience and recommends working closely with an Account Manager to refine the strategy and identify the right leads.
For over three years, Rv has been using Oneflare to provide makeup services for weddings, birthdays, and award ceremonies. Her passion is creating flawless looks for every occasion using premium products that meet her clients’ needs.
For her, the award opened doors:
“It helped me connect with the high-value clients who appreciate my premium products and services.”
Success advice: Rv believes success comes from quoting fairly and adjusting to the type of event and the needs of her clients. She also recommends offering discounts for group bookings to make her services more attractive and keeping prices competitive to secure a steady stream of clients.
How to win a Oneflare Business Award
To win a Oneflare Business Award, you need to do more than show up and send out quotes. Start with these four tips to give yourself the best chance.
Stay active and quote strategically
Customers often hire the first qualified business that responds, so log in daily and send quotes quickly when you see relevant jobs in your area. However, don’t disappear after hitting send!
Instead, check the platform regularly to answer any follow-up questions, clarify project details, or provide additional information the customer might need.
More importantly, be specific in your quotes. Explain your specific process, mention similar projects you’ve completed, and directly address what the customer is asking for.
Tip: A thoughtful, detailed quote that speaks to their exact needs will consistently outperform a generic copy-paste template sent to dozens of listings.
Deliver exceptional service
Arrive on time, communicate clearly, and treat every customer’s space and belongings with respect. This means cleaning up your work area, clearly explaining what you’re doing, and following up after the job is complete.
Going beyond expectations means being proactive when you identify issues and ensuring the entire experience is smooth and stress-free.
Request detailed reviews
Request a review after completing the work, when the customer has expressed satisfaction. Make it part of your routine: “If you’re happy with the results, a review on Oneflare would really help my business.”
While you’re at it, ask permission to photograph the finished work for your portfolio. Most customers are happy to say yes, and those before-and-after shots can prove your quality on your profile.
Keep your profile updated
Upload high-quality photos of your actual work showing before-and-after results and attention to detail. Update your service descriptions to be specific about what you specialise in, your approach, and what makes your business different.
Also, don’t forget to include certifications, insurance details, and guarantees.
Ready to join the winner’s circle?
You’ve got what it takes. Now it’s about putting in the consistent effort that gets you noticed. Start positioning yourself as a contender today, and let that award badge work for your business all year long.
You pull up your standard quote template, fill in the blanks, hit send, then… crickets. Sounds painfully familiar? With dozens of businesses vying for the same project on Oneflare, even established companies with solid track records are seeing their quote-to-win rates plummet.
The biggest culprit? Most quotes sound exactly the same! They’re generic, impersonal, and fail to address what the customer is actually looking for. Worse yet, some quotes dump an “I can do it!” message with a random price tag and call it a day.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the six proven strategies most successful Oneflare businesses use to turn quotes into booked projects. Whether you’re new to the platform or frustrated with your current conversion rate, these simple tweaks will help you connect better and seal the deal faster.
Reach out within 60 minutes
A Harvard Business Review study revealed that businesses responding to leads within one hour are seven times more likely to have meaningful conversations with decision-makers. However, only 37% responded within an hour, which means there’s a huge opportunity to stand out simply by being faster.
To do this, check Oneflare for new posts every few hours, review the job description, send a quick response introducing yourself, and confirm your interest in their project. Don’t feel pressured to provide an estimate right away because there’s always a chance you might need to adjust pricing based on their specific situation.
Build trust with experience and qualifications
Customers receive dozens of quotes that all look the same, so your first message needs to establish credibility immediately. Focus on demonstrating why you’re qualified for their specific project by mentioning relevant previous work, certifications, and years of experience directly related to their needs.
For example, if they need bathroom renovations, mention how many bathrooms you’ve completed and any plumbing certifications you hold. Don’t forget to also include a portfolio or link to your website showing examples of similar work. You may also offer references from past customers who have completed similar projects.
Once you’ve established your credentials, suggest a quick phone call to discuss their project in detail. Phone conversations have much higher success rates than text exchanges, allowing you to build rapport while understanding their specific requirements.
Ask questions to give a better quote
Whether you connect by phone or through Oneflare’s messaging system, ask specific questions that help you understand exactly what’s involved. Many customers don’t have a clear idea of what they really need, so your questions help guide them toward the best solution while demonstrating your expertise.
Example questions:
Project scope – What’s the exact size, area, or number of items involved?
Timing expectations – Do you have a preferred start date or completion deadline?
Access and logistics – Is parking available? Any stairs or access challenges?
Materials and design – Do you have specific materials in mind, or are you open to recommendations?
Budget range – What’s your expected investment for this project?
It also helps if you explain why you’re asking these questions. Be transparent with the customers and tell them that detailed information will help you provide accurate pricing and tailored recommendations rather than rough estimates that might change drastically once work begins.
Explain your price
Now that you understand their project requirements, provide a detailed breakdown so your customer understands exactly what they’re paying for.
To do this, break down your final quote into clear categories. For handyman services, add specific factors like labour costs, materials, equipment rental, permits if required, and any additional services like cleanup or disposal.
Depending on the complexity of the task, you should also explain the factors that influenced your total price based on the information they provided. If they mentioned tight access that requires smaller equipment, explain how this affects costs. If they chose premium materials or have a rushed timeline, show how these decisions impact pricing as well.
Lastly, be transparent about how you’ll handle and price additional requests or unforeseen issues that may arise during the work.
Tip:When you itemise your quote, customers focus less on the total price and more on the value they’re getting for each part of the project.
Confirm timeline and next steps
After providing your detailed quote, clearly outline the project timeline and next steps so customers know what to expect. Break down your timeline into clear phases with realistic completion dates based on the project scope and their preferred start date. For outdoor projects like adding a verandah, mention factors that could affect timing, such as weather delays or permit approval times.
More importantly, clearly state what happens next if they want to proceed and give them a specific timeframe for their decision. For example: “This quote is valid for 14 days, and I can book your project for [specific start date].” This creates appropriate urgency while showing you have professional scheduling processes in place.
Follow up within 2-3 days
Oneflare notifies you when customers view your quote, giving you the perfect follow-up time. It is highly recommended that you wait at least 2 to 3 days after they’ve seen your quote before reaching out to give them time to review all their options.
When you follow up, offer additional value rather than just asking for a decision. Mention a recent similar project you completed, provide additional references, or clarify any details that need explanation. You can also end with your availability: “I have space in my schedule starting next week if you’d like to proceed.”
Start winning more jobs today
And there we have the six best strategies guaranteed to boost your Oneflare quote-to-win conversion rate. As you can see, the difference between blending in with generic quotes and standing out as the obvious choice often comes down to treating each quote as a professional opportunity rather than a quick admin task.
Ready to test these out? Your next customer might be posting their biggest project on Oneflare right now! Check for new job postings, implement these techniques, and make sure you’re the first to reach them with a quote that wins.
Figuring out how to start a dog grooming business from scratch can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re working with limited resources and handling everything on your own.
As an aspiring entrepreneur, you’re likely wondering how to attract your first clients, build a solid reputation, and turn your love for dogs into a reliable source of income.
Whether you’re offering basic dog wash, dog nail clipping, or pet tidy-ups in your local neighbourhood, finding practical ways to reach pet owners is key.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple, effective strategies to get your dog grooming business off the ground, connect with customers, and lay the foundations for long-term success in the pet care industry.
Step 1: Identify the market of your dog grooming business
Before diving into your dog grooming business plan, it’s important to understand who your ideal customers are and what grooming services they need. Identifying your target market helps you tailor your services, pricing, and marketing efforts to attract the right clients from the start. All of this can help you learn how to become the best dog groomer you can be.
Explore different types of dog grooming services
Offering a range of dog grooming services allows you to meet the needs of different breeds, coat types, and pet personalities. By understanding what each service involves, you can decide which ones to offer initially and which to add as your business grows. You can also grow your skills through dog grooming training near you.
A professional pet groomer trims a Golden Cocker Spaniel’s coat during a grooming appointment. | Source: Kaluna Pet Grooming
Bathing and blow-drying
This is a basic service you can offer if you’re wondering how to start a dog grooming business at home. It involves thoroughly washing the dog with pet-safe shampoo, followed by a gentle blow-dry in order to remove dirt, odours, and loose fur while keeping the coat clean and fluffy.
Hair trimming and styling
Hair trimming keeps the dog’s coat neat, manageable, and suited to the breed’s needs, while styling can involve breed-specific cuts or custom looks. It’s ideal for long-haired dogs or those needing regular grooming.
Nail clipping and paw care
Trimming nails prevents overgrowth, splitting, and discomfort, while paw care can include moisturising pads and checking for debris or injuries. This service promotes better mobility and paw health.
Ear cleaning and plucking
Regular ear cleaning helps prevent infections, especially in breeds with floppy ears. In some cases, plucking excess hair from the ear canal is also done to improve airflow and cleanliness.
De-shedding treatments
This dog grooming service reduces excessive shedding by removing dead hair using specialised tools. It’s particularly useful for double-coated and high-shedding breeds.
Flea and tick treatments
This service involves applying topical treatments or using medicated baths to eliminate fleas and ticks. It helps protect both the pet and the home environment from infestations.
Anal gland expression
You can run a dog business from home, but you still need to have a dedicated space for it, especially when providing slightly more complicated services such as this one.
This involves manually expressing the dog’s anal glands to prevent discomfort, infections, or odours. It’s often recommended for dogs showing signs of scooting or swelling.
Toothbrushing
Brushing a dog’s teeth helps reduce plaque, tartar build-up, and bad breath. Regular dental care supports overall health and prevents gum disease.
Puppy grooming
A gentle introduction to grooming that includes basic services like bathing, light brushing, and nail clipping. It helps puppies get used to being handled and builds trust for future grooming sessions.
Mobile dog grooming
A mobile dog salon brings grooming directly to the customer’s home via a fully equipped van or trailer. It’s ideal for busy pet owners or dogs who get anxious in salon settings.
Mobile dog grooming provides convenience with professional results. | Source: Copacabarko
Special care for elderly or anxious dogs
Tailored grooming sessions that prioritise comfort and minimise stress. These services may include extra time, gentle handling, and calming techniques for senior or nervous pets.
Choose your dog grooming business niche
Find the right niche for your dog grooming business so you can stand out in a competitive market and attract a loyal customer base. By focusing on a specific area of grooming, you can tailor your services, pricing, and marketing to suit the needs of your ideal clients.
Eco-friendly dog grooming niche
This niche focuses on using natural, non-toxic, and biodegradable products, along with water-saving and waste-reducing practices. It appeals to environmentally conscious pet owners looking for safe and sustainable grooming options.
Pros: Attracts eco-aware clients and builds a socially responsible brand.
Cons: Eco-friendly products may cost more and have limited availability.
Mobile dog grooming niche
This niche provides on-the-go grooming services directly to the customer’s home using a fully equipped mobile setup. It offers convenience for busy pet owners and less stress for dogs who dislike travelling.
Pros: Low overheads and flexible schedule. Mobile dog grooming prices are also higher than traditional salons due to the travelling involved.
Cons: High initial investment in a mobile grooming van and travel-related expenses.
Luxury dog spa niche
This premium niche offers high-end services like aromatherapy baths, facials, massages, and designer cuts. It targets pet owners who are willing to spend more on pampering their dogs.
Pros: Higher profit margins and affluent clientele.
Cons: Requires specialised training, equipment, and upscale branding for a smaller market with high expectations.
Breed-specific grooming niche
This niche specialises in precise grooming styles tailored to specific dog breeds, such as poodles, schnauzers, or spaniels. It appeals to show dog owners and breed enthusiasts who seek expert grooming knowledge.
Pros: Builds a reputation for expertise and precision, so it’s easier to market for breed enthusiasts.
Cons: Demands advanced skills and continuous training with dog grooming classes.
Elderly and special needs dog grooming niche
This niche caters to senior dogs and those with physical or behavioural challenges, focusing on gentle handling and personalised care. It attracts owners seeking safe, compassionate grooming for vulnerable pets.
Pros: Fills a crucial gap, builds client loyalty.
Cons: Services may take longer and require additional patience and care.
Nail trimming and paw care during a full dog grooming session. | Source: 26 Paws
Decide on the service area for your dog grooming business
Choosing where to launch or expand your dog grooming business plays a critical role in its growth potential. With the latest 2024 job posting data from Oneflare, we can now identify the key cities in Australia showing the highest demand for dog grooming services.
The table below highlights the top five cities by their share of total national job postings for dog grooming in 2024.
City
Percentage Share of Total Dog Grooming Job Demand
Dog grooming services in Melbourne
36.3%
Dog grooming services in Sydney
32.7%
Dog grooming services in Gold Coast
9.6%
Dog grooming services in Brisbane
9.3%
Dog grooming services in Adelaide
4.3%
Australian cities with the highest dog grooming job demand
Melbourne is in the lead, capturing 36.3% of all dog grooming job postings. This high demand reflects the city’s vibrant pet culture, large suburban sprawl, and strong preference for premium pet care. The growing popularity of pet-friendly living spaces and boutique grooming salons contributes further to this trend.
Sydney follows closely with 32.7% of the total demand. With a dense urban population and high pet ownership among apartment dwellers and busy professionals, Sydney presents an ideal market for mobile grooming and convenience-based services. Pet owners here often prioritise cleanliness, coat maintenance, and regular grooming appointments as part of their pets’ health regimen.
The Gold Coast and Brisbane account for 9.6% and 9.3% respectively. Both cities benefit from warm climates, which can drive frequent grooming to manage heat and hygiene, especially among active breeds. Their family-friendly suburbs and outdoor lifestyles also promote regular grooming, particularly for dogs exposed to sand, salt, and foliage.
Australian cities with lower dog grooming job demand
Adelaide, with 4.3% of the national job postings, represents a smaller but still viable market. While demand is lower compared to the East Coast capitals, Adelaide’s slower pace and lower competition provide an opportunity for dog grooming businesses to build loyal, local client bases.
Other cities not in the top five — such as Perth, Canberra, and Darwin — may also exhibit limited demand. Still, they offer potential for growth through targeted marketing, personal referrals, and specialised grooming services like breed-specific cuts or skin treatments. Business owners in these markets can succeed by positioning themselves as trusted, go-to providers for reliable, personalised pet care.
Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the dog grooming industry
Understanding seasonal trends in the dog grooming industry is essential for managing fluctuations in demand and optimising your operations. Certain months see a significant surge in grooming appointments, while other periods may naturally taper off.
By aligning your services with these trends, such as promoting shedding control during high-moult seasons or offering prep packages before major holidays, you can maintain consistent revenue and ensure long-term stability throughout the year.
Identify popular seasons for dog grooming services
The most in-demand months for dog grooming services in Australia, based on 2024 job posting data from Oneflare, are March, April, and May.
March marks the beginning of the seasonal rise in grooming appointments. As summer ends, pet owners often schedule grooming to clean and freshen up their dogs after months of outdoor activity. Removing residual dirt, sand, and moisture helps improve coat and skin condition ahead of autumn.
April reaches the peak of demand. This is when dogs begin shedding their summer coats, prompting many owners to book professional grooming to manage excess hair and avoid matting. With cooler weather setting in, coat maintenance becomes even more important for pet comfort and health.
May sustains high grooming demand as the transition into winter continues. Pet owners prioritise de-shedding, hygiene, and skin treatments to keep their dogs well-groomed and comfortable through the colder months. Regular grooming during this period also helps manage indoor allergens and odours as pets spend more time inside.
Seasonal grooming includes thorough bathing for clean and healthy pets. | Source: Western Dogwash
Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations
Dog grooming cost and demand can rise and fall throughout the year, with peak times around warmer months and holidays. Planning with flexible strategies can help you maintain a steady dog groomer income and client bookings all year round.
Offer seasonal dog grooming service packages
To attract seasonal bookings, create themed packages that align with the seasons, like summer de-shedding treatments or winter coat conditioning. These packages can boost sales and give clients a reason to return throughout the year.
Diversify your dog grooming service offerings
Add extra services, such as flea treatments in summer or moisturising paw care in winter, to stay relevant during slow periods. Diversifying keeps you adaptable and helps meet changing pet care needs year-round, keeping your dog grooming business profit steady.
Focus on regular dog grooming schedules and memberships
Encourage clients to commit to recurring appointments through grooming plans or membership packages with perks. This creates a reliable dog groomer salary and helps smooth out seasonal dips in demand
Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring dog grooming clients
Use platforms like Oneflare to connect with pet owners looking for trusted, ongoing grooming services. Consistently listing your business online helps you attract steady enquiries even during quieter months. Here, you can also research how much other dog groomers make for their services if you request a quote.
Leveraging lead generation platforms like Oneflare connects you with potential clients, increasing your chances of securing recurring pet grooming service requests. | Source: Oneflare
Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the dog grooming industry
Before setting your prices or launching your services, it’s essential to research what other dog groomers in your area are charging and offering. Analysing your competitors helps you position your business competitively, understand what pet owners are willing to pay, and find opportunities to stand out in the market.
Understand the cost of common dog grooming services
To price your dog grooming services fairly and profitably, it’s important to understand the factors that influence grooming costs. These can include the size and breed of the dog, the condition and length of its coat, the type and number of services requested, your level of experience, and your location.
Additional costs, such as travel for mobile grooming or the use of premium, eco-friendly products, can affect pricing. By identifying these influences, you’ll be better equipped to create a pricing structure that reflects your value while staying competitive.
Types of Dog Grooming Services
Average Price Range
Full grooming (wash, cut, nails)
$65 – $120 per session
Bath and tidy (wash, brush, trim)
$40 – $80 per session
De-shedding treatment
$25 – $60 per treatment
Nail clipping
$15 – $25 per session
Ear cleaning
$15 – $30 per session
Flea and tick treatment
$20 – $40 per treatment
Mobile grooming service
$70 – $130 per visit
Puppy grooming
$40 – $70 per session
Breed-specific styling
$70 – $150 per session
Keep in mind that the prices listed in the table are general estimates and can vary depending on your location, the dog’s size and coat condition, and the specific services offered. Factors such as mobile convenience, premium products, or handling of anxious pets may also influence the final cost. Always research local competitors and adjust your pricing to reflect your skill level, service quality, and business expenses.
Decide how to charge for dog grooming services
Choosing the right pricing method is key to running a sustainable and profitable dog grooming business. How much you charge for dog grooming should reflect the time, effort, and resources required while also appealing to your target market.
Flat rate pricing for common grooming packages
Set fixed prices for standard grooming services like baths, trims, or nail clipping to keep things simple and transparent for clients. This method works well for basic, repeatable services.
Hourly rate pricing for complex or behavioural grooming needs
Charge by the hour when working with dogs that require extra care due to matting, anxiety, or special handling needs. It ensures you’re fairly compensated for time-intensive sessions.
Size-based pricing for different breeds
Set rates based on the dog’s size or breed group, as larger dogs or those with dense coats often require more time and effort. This approach helps balance workload and pricing more accurately.
Membership and multi-visit discounts
Offer grooming memberships or discounts for pre-booked regular visits to encourage repeat business. It builds client loyalty while helping you maintain a consistent income.
Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)
To stand out in a competitive market, it’s important to identify what makes your dog grooming business special. Your unique selling points (USPs) highlight the value you offer and help attract clients who align with your approach and services.
Use of natural, dog-safe grooming products
Using gentle, natural products shows your commitment to pet safety and wellbeing, appealing to health-conscious owners who want the best for their dogs.
Specialised services for anxious or senior dogs
Offering tailored care for nervous or elderly pets demonstrates compassion and expertise, building trust with owners seeking extra attention for their furry friends.
Mobile or in-home dog grooming options
Providing convenient grooming at the client’s home saves time and reduces stress for dogs, making your service especially attractive to busy or mobility-challenged pet owners. This makes a mobile dog grooming business profitable.
Customised grooming packages by breed or coat type
Personalising grooming based on specific breed standards or coat needs showcases your skill and professionalism, appealing to owners who want expert care tailored to their dog’s unique requirements.
Pro tip: Promoting these USPs on platforms like Oneflare can help your dog grooming business stand out and attract clients seeking tailored services that competitors may not offer.
Step 4: Explore funding options for your dog grooming business
Securing funding for your dog grooming business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals.
Exploring funding options is a key step in starting your pet grooming business, ensuring you have the resources to launch and grow successfully. | Source: iStock
Self-funding
Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.
Small business loans
Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.
Secured and unsecured business loans
Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial dog grooming business tools, equipment, and transportation assets.
Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your dog grooming business, like vehicles, dog grooming tools, and equipment.
Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher.
Government and industry programs
Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.
Equity Investment
Startup dog grooming businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment. It’s a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to get a stake in the company.
There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.
Step 5: Develop a strategic dog grooming business plan
Starting a dog grooming business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business.
Developing a strategic pet grooming business plan is essential for setting clear goals, outlining growth strategies, and achieving long-term success. | Source: iStock
It should include key elements, such as:
Executive summary
Company profile
Business description
Market analysis
Services offered and pricing strategy
Marketing strategies
Budget and cash flow forecast
Operations plan
Risk mitigation strategy
Long-term growth plan
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your dog grooming business.
Draft an executive summary
First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your dog grooming business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.
Write your dog grooming business description
Your dog grooming business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your dog grooming business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location.
Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.
Describe your dog grooming business niche and types of services
The next step is to define the core focus of your dog grooming business. Are you offering standard grooming for family pets, breed-specific styling for show dogs, mobile grooming services for convenience, or a specialised niche such as puppy grooming, senior dog care, or hypoallergenic grooming treatments?
Clearly define why you’ve chosen this field and provide a short overview of your ideal clients. For example, your target audience might include busy pet parents looking for regular, stress-free grooming at home, dog owners of specific breeds that require high-maintenance coat care, or health-conscious clients seeking natural, cruelty-free grooming products for their furry friends.
Once you have completed writing your company profile and dog grooming business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends.
From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.
Outline your dog grooming services and pricing strategy
Your business plan should also specify the types of dog grooming services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.
Detail your marketing and sales plan
For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels — such as social media, SEO, or partnerships — and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.
Create a budget and forecast cash flow
The budget and forecast cash flow are a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue.
Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance.
Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.
Establish an operations plan
The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.
Develop a risk mitigation strategy
After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify common risks in the dog grooming industry, such as accidental injury to pets during grooming, allergic reactions to products, equipment faults, or aggressive animal behaviour.
Implement clear safety protocols to manage these challenges. This might include proper handling and restraint techniques, thorough pet assessments before each session, regular maintenance of grooming tools, and the use of vet-approved, non-toxic grooming products.
You can also look into the types of business insurance coverage needed. Key policies may include public liability insurance to cover third-party injury or property damage, pet care liability insurance for incidents involving animals in your care, and coverage for your grooming equipment and vehicle if you offer mobile services.
Conclude with a long-term growth plan
Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define your business’s short-term and long-term objectives, such as adding new dog grooming services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts.
Step 6: Register your dog grooming business
To start a dog grooming business, you may need to obtain registrations, specific dog grooming business licenses, and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations.
Building a reliable team for your dog groomer business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire dog groomers near you and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.
Hiring experienced groomers is key to delivering quality pet grooming services. | Source: Yoshizawa, Kozue
Write a job description
First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as bathing, brushing, nail clipping, ear cleaning, coat trimming, and any specialised services like de-shedding treatments, breed-specific styling, flea and tick rinses) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.
Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.
Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job
After crafting the job ad, post a ‘dog groomers hiring’ ad on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right dog groomers for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:
SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.
If you have a business page, you might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area.
Don’t overlook employee referrals, either — current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.
Screen and interview thoughtfully
As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, dog grooming skills, and alignment with your business.
This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they’ve handled challenging grooming situations in the past, such as working with anxious or aggressive dogs, managing severe matting or skin conditions, grooming senior pets with mobility issues, or preparing dogs for shows with specific breed standards under time constraints.
It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your dog groomers will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality.
Make an offer and onboard your new hire
When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations.
Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to familiarise them with your dog grooming business’s standards, animal handling procedures, client communication practices, and the specific grooming techniques and tools they’ll be using. This helps ensure safe, consistent, and high-quality grooming that aligns with your business’s expectations.
If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.
Offer ongoing support and fair treatment
A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff.
Step 8: Invest in the right dog grooming tools and equipment
Each dog grooming business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of key items, their estimated costs, and where to purchase them in Australia:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.
Step 9: Find clients for your dog grooming business
Attracting and retaining clients is crucial to growing your dog grooming business. With the right strategies, you can connect with local pet owners, build a loyal customer base, and keep your appointment book full.
Expand your online presence
Building a strong online presence is essential for reaching more dog owners and showcasing your grooming services. By creating a professional website, engaging on social media, and listing your business on platforms like Oneflare, you can increase your visibility and attract new clients easily.
Build your dog grooming business website
A website is essential for establishing your dog grooming business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.
To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful dog grooming business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience.
Shazza’s Pampered Paws website
Shazza’s Pampered Paws is a great example of a website for an independent pet groomer. Its simple layout has a homey vibe that could make pet owners feel a general sense of security, which also builds trust. The About page has friendly and straightforward copy, while the Contact page features a form that could help interested clients get in touch. The best feature of this website is the Gallery page of cute pets they’ve groomed, as well as the before-and-after photos on the Home page.
Shazza’s Pampered Paws’ simple layout has a homey vibe that could make pet owners feel a general sense of security, which also builds trust. | Source: Shazza’s Pampered Paws
Aussie Grooming Solutions website
Aussie Grooming Solutions is a pet grooming company with a strong brand personality. You’ll notice this immediately upon visiting their colourfully pink website. Their website is a good example of how to organise sites for larger pet grooming teams. They have dedicated pages for introducing their team members, dog grooming courses, and even how to collaborate with their brand. But even if you’re just an independent groomer, you can still get a lot of ideas from this site in terms of web design and organisation.
Aussie Grooming Solutions is a pet grooming company with a strong brand personality. | Source: Aussie Grooming Solutions
Estella’s Pet Paradise website
Estella’s Pet Paradise is a slightly more advanced website than Shazza’s because, even though it’s for an independent pet groomer, it has features like an AI site chat, shop, and even a blog. These are great for search engine optimisation (SEO) and audience engagement. However, their blogs use AI-generated images, which might not reflect well on their brand.
Estella’s Pet Paradise’s website has several advanced features like an AI site chat, shop, and even a blog. | Source: Estella’s Pet Paradise
Post on lead generation platforms
Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for dog grooming businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for dog grooming services, providing an immediate source of leads.
Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your dog grooming expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.
Posting on lead-generation platforms like Oneflare is a highly effective way for pet grooming businesses to connect with potential clients. | Source: Dawson, Ailsa
SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.
A Google search results page for “pet grooming services Sydney Oneflare,” showing top-ranked Oneflare pages showing the top pet groomers in NSW. | Source: Google Search
Social media advertising
Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your dog grooming services and client work visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.
The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a dog grooming business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Barking Bubbles Mobile Pet Grooming – Facebook advertising
Barking Bubbles Mobile Pet Grooming is great at blending professional visuals with a friendly brand voice. They also clearly show their qualifications and community involvement while consistently communicating with their clients via their Facebook page. This is reflective of transparent reputation management that builds trust and drives client bookings. If you’re wondering how to start a mobile dog grooming business, you can check out their page for inspiration.
Barking Bubbles Mobile Pet Grooming clearly show their qualifications and community involvement while consistently communicating with their clients via their Facebook page. | Source: Barking Bubbles Mobile Pet Grooming
Ella’s Pet Studio – Instagram advertising
Ella’s Pet Studio features the most adorable pet portraits of the dogs they’ve groomed. You can really appreciate the artistry behind every photo and reel they post, and this helps potential customers to see their talent not just with taking photos and videos of their pets, but also with styling their fur babies. Even with a modest 200+ following, this page is a good example of how you can feature your pet grooming work on Instagram.
Ella’s Pet Studio’s Instagram page features the most adorable pet portraits of the dogs they’ve groomed. | Source: Ella’s Pet Studio
Suburban Dog – TikTok advertising
Suburban Dog has a TikTok page that is still quite unpolished. But among top-rated pet groomers on Oneflare, they’re the only one that has one. Most pet groomers focus their efforts on Facebook on Instagram, so exploring TikTok is a way to set you apart from the crowd. As they say in the content creation industry, it’s all about getting started. So learn from Suburban Dog, don’t stress too much about perfectionism, and grow your business following on TikTok.
Among top-rated pet groomers on Oneflare, Suburban Dog is the only one that has a TikTok page. | Source: Suburban Dog
Build your dog grooming business’s reputation through reviews and referrals
A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new dog grooming clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.
Building a strong reputation through positive reviews on platforms like Oneflare helps establish credibility and trust, attracting new pet grooming clients and ensuring long-term business success. | Source: Dawson, Ailsa
Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently
Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win dog grooming jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates.
Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:
Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
Zoho Bookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.
These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks.
Step 10: Get paid for your dog grooming services!
Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to get paid for your dog grooming services. Here’s how:
Choose a reliable accounting software
Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.
Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:
Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
Simplify payments for your pet grooming services by offering secure and convenient online payment options for your clients. | Source: iStock
Create a dog grooming business invoice
Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms.
Many accounting platforms offer invoice templates for customisable dog grooming services, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free dog grooming templates as a guide:
It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.
Canva’s invoice templates allow businesses to create personalised and visually appealing dog grooming invoices. | Sources: Canva
It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for different businesses, like dog grooming businesses. These templates are compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.
Conta’s specialised invoice templates are designed to simplify billing for pet grooming services. | Source: Conta
It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.
Microsoft provides a variety of invoice templates to help pet grooming businesses manage billing with professional designs and customisations. | Source: Microsoft
The template offers a clean and organised layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.
Zoho’s service invoice templates offer customisable solutions for pet grooming businesses to streamline billing processes and track payments efficiently | Source: Zoho
Set up a bank account for business payments
Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.
Offer digital payment options
Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking dog grooming services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.
Establish clear payment terms
Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.
Take the Next Step for Your Dog Grooming Business with Oneflare
Starting a dog grooming business can be an exciting and rewarding venture when you have the right knowledge and strategies in place. From identifying your target market and choosing your niche, to setting competitive prices and marketing your services effectively, each step helps build a strong foundation for success. Whether you’re offering basic grooming or specialised care, adapting to seasonal demands and highlighting your unique selling points will set you apart in the pet care industry.
Now that you’re equipped with practical tips and insights, figuring out how to get dog grooming clients should be a breeze. Posting your dog grooming services on Oneflare connects you directly with local pet owners actively seeking trusted, quality groomers. With Oneflare’s easy-to-use platform, you can grow your client base, increase bookings, and turn your passion for grooming into a thriving business. Get started today and watch your dog grooming business flourish.
FAQs on how to start a dog grooming business
How much does it cost to start a dog grooming business?
Starting costs can vary but typically range from $4,000 for basic equipment and supplies if you’re working from home, up to higher amounts if you invest in a mobile grooming van or a dedicated salon space.
Do I need council approval to run a dog grooming business from home?
Dog grooming business license requirements depend on your local council regulations. Many councils require permits or approvals for home-based businesses, especially if you expect regular customer visits or increased noise.
Do I need to register my dog grooming business?
Yes, dog groomers need a license to operate legally. In Australia, you’ll need to register your business with the government and obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN).
How should I price my dog grooming services?
Consider factors like the dog’s size and breed, the complexity of the service, your experience, and local market rates. You can use flat rates, hourly pricing, or size-based fees, and offer memberships or discounts to encourage repeat clients.
Starting your own roofing business might seem like a daunting challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to create a rewarding career in a high-demand industry. Whether you’re an expert in patching up leaks or replacing shingles, learning how to start a roofing business equips you with the skills and strategies to turn your expertise into a profitable venture.
This guide breaks down how to start your own roofing business step by step, covering everything from planning and equipment to client acquisition and long-term growth. You’ll learn practical tips and actionable insights to establish a trusted reputation in the industry.
Step 1: Identify the market of your roofing business
Understanding your local market is crucial before you start your roofing business. Research the demand for roofing services in your area and what clients typically need. This step not only helps you define your niche but also prepares you for essential requirements, such as purchasing the materials you’ll need or getting the right roofing license to operate legally and professionally.
Explore different types of roofing services
Decide which types of roofing services you’ll focus on based on your target market’s needs. Offering diverse services can help you attract more clients, but starting with a manageable niche ensures you deliver quality while building your reputation.
Brick home under construction, highlighting roofing structure and preparation for installation. | Source: Phillips Roof & Gutter Solutions
Roof installation
Roof installation services involve installing various materials like asphalt shingles, metal, slate, or tile, depending on the client’s needs and budget. This type of roofing service is ideal for new construction projects, which target property developers and homeowners who need durable, high-quality roofs. Producing quality roofing installation can position your business as a reliable partner for long-term roofing solutions.
Roof replacement
Roof replacement services focus on removing old, damaged roofs and installing new ones to ensure safety and durability. They’re often needed for aging roofs or during major home renovations, offering homeowners a chance to upgrade aesthetics and improve energy efficiency. Popular materials like metal or solar-integrated roof replacement options appeal to clients looking for long-term value and modern features.
Roof repairs
Roof repair services address common issues like leaks, missing shingles, and structural damage, ensuring roofs remain functional and safe. This work often includes patching holes, sealing cracks, or replacing damaged sections to prevent further problems. Repairs are usually urgent, which makes them a reliable source of steady income for roofing businesses.
Roof maintenance
Regular roof maintenance helps homeowners and businesses prevent costly repairs by addressing issues early. Services like routine inspections, cleaning gutters, and resealing surfaces ensure roofs stay in good condition for longer. Adding options like roof painting can also enhance durability and improve the overall look, making this a valuable offering for clients focused on preventative care.
Roof cleaning
Roof cleaning services focus on removing moss, algae, dirt, and debris to protect roofs from damage and improve their appearance. One effective roof cleaning tip is to use cleaning techniques like soft washing or pressure washing on the roof’s material to avoid unnecessary wear. This service is especially valuable in humid climates or areas with heavy tree coverage, where buildup can quickly become an issue.
Routine roof cleaning service helps remove dirt and debris buildup from tiles. | Source: United Trade Links
Gutter installation and repair
Guttering services like guttering installation or guttering repair ensure proper drainage, protecting roofs and foundations from water damage. Offering options such as gutter guards or advising on the best types of gutters can help clients maintain their homes effectively. This service pairs well with roof replacements or maintenance, making it a practical addition to your business.
Roof insulation
Roof insulation helps improve home energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and lowering energy costs. Using materials like spray foam or rigid foam boards is ideal for eco-conscious clients or those aiming to meet energy efficiency standards. Adding insulation to your offerings can appeal to homeowners looking for long-term savings and sustainable solutions.
Roof waterproofing
Roof waterproofing includes applying coatings or membranes to roofs to prevent water damage and stop leaks before they start. It’s especially useful for flat roofs or homes in areas with heavy rainfall, reducing the need for constant leaking roof repair. This service appeals to both commercial clients and homeowners who want long-term protection from water infiltration.
Emergency storm damage repair
Emergency storm damage repair focuses on immediate fixes for leaks, fallen debris, or structural issues caused by severe weather. These services are in high demand during storm seasons, especially in areas prone to hurricanes or heavy snow. Offering a quick response can help build trust and position your business as a reliable solution during urgent situations.
Skylight installation
Skylight installation enhances natural light and boosts energy efficiency, making it a popular choice for homeowners remodelling or increasing property value. This service requires precise expertise to ensure the skylights are waterproof and seamlessly integrated with the existing roof. Adding this option can attract clients seeking modern upgrades with both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Choose your roofing business niche
Selecting a niche helps you stand out in the market and effectively target the right clients. Decide whether your roofing business will focus on residential repairs, commercial projects, or specialised services.
Residential roofing business niche
This niche provides roofing services for single-family homes, townhouses, and small residential buildings. Popular offerings include roof installation and repairs for issues like leaks or missing shingles. Maintenance packages with regular roofing inspections and cleaning can also attract homeowners and property managers seeking long-term care.
Pros: High demand, steady income potential, and repeat business through maintenance.
Cons: Intense competition and pricing pressures in local markets.
Commercial roofing business niche
The commercial roofing business niche focuses on solutions for office buildings, warehouses, and retail spaces. This niche often involves flat roofing systems like EPDM, TPO, or built-up roofing, with services including installation, repair, and waterproofing. Targeting property management firms and business owners can lead to larger, high-value projects.
Pros: High-profit margins and long-term contracts.
Cons: Requires specialised expertise and higher upfront costs.
Eco-friendly roofing business niche
This niche provides sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for environmentally conscious clients. Services include green roofs with vegetation for insulation, solar panel installations to reduce energy costs, and roofing systems made from recycled or eco-friendly materials. This niche appeals to homeowners and businesses aiming for sustainability.
Pros: Growing demand and higher profit potential for specialised services.
Cons: Requires investment in training and access to niche materials.
Roofing and solar services combined for energy-efficient home upgrades. | Source: ICM Services
Storm damage and emergency roofing business niche
This niche provides urgent solutions for roofs impacted by severe weather. Services include emergency tarping, leak repairs, and replacing heavily damaged sections to prevent further issues. This niche thrives in areas prone to hurricanes, heavy snow, or hailstorms, which requires efficient logistics and round-the-clock availability.
Pros: High demand and opportunities for premium pricing.
Cons: Requires 24/7 readiness and quick response capabilities.
Roof cleaning and maintenance business niche
This niche focuses on routine upkeep to extend the lifespan of roofs and prevent costly repairs. Services include debris removal, moss and algae cleaning, gutter clearing, and minor repairs. Subscription-based roof maintenance services create consistent revenue streams while appealing to residential and commercial clients who prioritise regular upkeep.
Pros: Steady income through repeat business and lower operational costs.
Cons: Highly competitive and labour-intensive.
Decide on the service area for your roofing business
Determining where to establish or expand your roofing business is crucial for its success. By identifying regions with the highest demand for roofing services, you can position yourself in areas where your business is more likely to thrive.
The table below highlights the demand for roofing services across various cities in Australia, based on Oneflare’s job posting data from 2024. We’ll break down the demand in each city and explore the factors driving the need for professional roofers in these areas.
Australian cities with the highest roofing job demand
Melbourne leads the market, capturing 21.7% of the total demand for roofing services in Australia. This is driven by the city’s extensive urban sprawl and older housing stock, which often requires repairs and replacements.
Perth closely follows with 20.0% of the demand, attributed to the need for durable roofing solutions suitable for the city’s hot, dry climate.
Sydney represents 19.9% of the market. The city’s diverse architecture and weather patterns, which include frequent rainfall, contribute to consistent demand for roofing maintenance and upgrades.
Brisbane accounts for 15.7%, with demand largely due to its subtropical climate, which can lead to weather-related roof damage requiring frequent repairs.
Australian cities with lower roofing job demand
Gold Coast has a smaller share at 3.2%. Despite lower overall demand, businesses can focus on specialised services like cyclone-proof and energy-efficient roofing to cater to the region’s coastal and subtropical conditions.
Smaller markets like Gold Coast present opportunities for businesses to build niche offerings and establish strong client relationships to stand out in less saturated environments.
Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the roofing industry
Understanding seasonal trends in the roofing industry is crucial for managing demand fluctuations and optimising your operations.
Some periods may bring a surge in client requests, while others slow down, making it essential to plan ahead. By strategically aligning your services with seasonal needs, you can maintain steady revenue and ensure the long-term stability of your business, regardless of fluctuations in demand.
Identify popular seasons for roofing services
According to Oneflare’s 2024 data on the total job postings for each type of service, the top three peak months for roofing services in 2024 are April, March, and January.
April sees the highest demand, likely driven by pre-winter preparations as homeowners and businesses repair or replace roofs to ensure they are weatherproof for the colder months. March follows closely, aligning with the end of summer when homeowners take advantage of favourable weather to complete roofing projects. January’s demand reflects the post-holiday period, as many people address roofing issues identified during the summer and holiday season.
Peak season for roof painting
Roof painting is most in demand in March, April, and February. These months coincide with warm, dry weather, which is optimal for painting and ensures the longevity of the job.
Peak season for general roofing
General roofing sees peak demand in April, March, and January. This trend reflects the need for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades ahead of seasonal weather changes, with homeowners acting proactively to avoid potential issues during the wet season.
Peak season for roof restoration
Roof restoration peaks in January, March, and April. January’s demand often arises from resolving damage caused by extreme summer weather, while March and April are driven by seasonal maintenance and pre-winter readiness.
Roof repair experiences its highest demand in April, May, and January. April and May align with pre-winter maintenance as homeowners address structural vulnerabilities before the colder months. January reflects post-summer repairs, often necessitated by seasonal wear or storm damage.
Peak season for roof leak repair
Roof leak repair peaks in April, February, and August. April’s demand is tied to seasonal rains that expose roof vulnerabilities, while February and August likely see an increase due to unseasonal rains or the buildup of weather-related issues from previous months.
Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations
Prepare for slower months by diversifying your services and marketing seasonal promotions to maintain steady revenue. Planning ahead helps your roofing business stay resilient during off-peak seasons.
Diversify your roofing service offerings
Expanding your services with options like roof restoration or interior waterproofing helps keep your business active year-round. Complementary solutions like solar panel installation or storm readiness assessments attract clients with specific seasonal needs. These additions ensure a steady income during off-peak months and position your business as versatile and reliable.
Offer seasonal packages and roofing service promotions
To attract clients during slower months, create seasonal deals like discounted roof cleaning or bundled services like gutter repair and maintenance. Promote these offers through email campaigns or social media and use urgency-focused language to drive action. Providing loyalty rewards or priority scheduling for repeat customers adds value and encourages long-term business.
Build relationships with other contractors
Partnering with builders, landscapers, or property managers can open referral opportunities and expand your client base. Collaborative efforts like joint service packages with home improvement businesses help attract more clients and fill seasonal gaps. Strengthening connections with suppliers and other contractors ensures better access to materials and shared projects when needed.
Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring roofing clients
Listing your services on platforms like Oneflare helps you learn how to generate roofing leads and connect with clients searching for reliable professionals. Optimising your profile with clear service descriptions, professional photos, and testimonials builds trust and attracts more inquiries. Offering subscription-based maintenance packages or targeting property managers through these sites can ensure a steady stream of recurring clients.
Leveraging lead generation platforms like Oneflare connects you with potential clients, increasing your chances of securing recurring roofing projects. | Source: Oneflare
Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the roofing industry
Studying the cost of roofing in your area and how competitors operate is key to pricing your services competitively. Whether you’re setting rates for installations or maintenance, analysing the market ensures your business stays profitable while appealing to clients.
Understand the cost of common roofing services
The roofing cost depends on factors like roof size, materials, and service type. For instance, a Colorbond roof installation might be pricier than standard asphalt shingles due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Services like roof restoration and roof painting cost less upfront but vary based on labour and material quality, which makes it essential to factor these into your pricing.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for various roofing services in Australia:
$50 to $55 per square metre for materials like concrete, metal, and asphalt shingles; $100 to $300 per square metre for materials such as clay, copper, timber, and slate
Approximately $11 per square metre for fibreglass insulation; up to $22 per square metre for polyester products.
Skylight installation
$300 to $2,000 or more, depending on type and complexity.
Emergency storm damage repair
Minor damage may cost $300 to $600; more extensive damage will have additional costs.
These cost estimates provide a general idea but may vary based on factors like location, project complexity, and material choices. For example, a roof replacement for a standard home can range from $15,000 to $25,000, while restoration or repainting depends heavily on property size and labour.
Always clarify to clients that these figures are rough estimates, as actual costs can change based on specific project details.
Decide how to charge for roofing services
When deciding how to charge for your roofing services, choose a pricing model that reflects your costs, project scope, and local market rates. Whether you charge by the square metre, hourly, or per project, make sure that it’s reflected in your roofing invoice template for transparency. Clear, itemised invoices build trust with your clients and make payment processes smoother.
Flat rate per job for smaller-scale and residential roofing jobs
Charging a flat rate works well for small and predictable jobs like minor roof repairs or maintenance. It simplifies pricing, which makes it easier for clients to understand and trust your quotes.
Cost per square metre for new roofing installations or replacements
Charging by the square metre is ideal for large projects like new installations or complete replacements. Rates depend on materials, with asphalt shingles costing $50–$100 per square metre and slate or tile roofs ranging from $150–$300. Knowing how much to charge for roofing per square metre ensures precise pricing that accounts for both material and labour costs.
Hourly rate for emergency roof repairs
Using an hourly rate works well for emergency and time-sensitive jobs like storm damage or urgent leaks. Market rates typically range from $75–$150 per hour, depending on location and job complexity. This approach offers flexibility and ensures clients seeking roofers for hire during emergencies get fast, reliable service.
Itemised billing for complex roofing projects
Itemised billing is ideal for large or intricate jobs like commercial roofs or custom designs. It separates labour, materials, and equipment charges, which offers transparency for clients managing big budgets. It ensures clear breakdowns, like listing material costs for eco-friendly roofs or tracking labour hours for multi-phase projects.
Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)
Identify what sets your roofing business apart, whether it’s specialised services, eco-friendly options, or exceptional customer service. Highlighting your USPs helps you stand out in a competitive market and attract the right clients.
Lifetime workmanship warranty
Offering a lifetime workmanship warranty assures clients of long-term quality and reliability. It sets your business apart from competitors with limited warranties, which makes it a strong USP. Highlight this warranty in your marketing to attract quality-conscious clients for installations, repairs, and replacements.
Eco-friendly roofing solutions
Providing eco-friendly roofing options attracts environmentally conscious clients. Offering energy-efficient solutions, such as solar panel installations or reflective roofs, helps clients save on energy bills while supporting sustainability. Aligning your services with green building codes or LEED certification strengthens your reputation and appeal in the market.
24/7 roofing emergency response services
Adding a 24/7 emergency response in your USPs ensures clients can rely on you for immediate repairs after storms, leaks, or debris damage. This service is especially valuable in areas prone to severe weather, showcasing your dependability during critical situations. The urgency of these jobs allows for premium pricing, which boosts your profitability while meeting client needs.
Detailed pre-project visualisation
Pre-project visualisation helps clients see the final design before work begins with tools like 3D modelling or architectural renderings. This reduces miscommunication, which ensures that their expectations align with the project execution. It also creates opportunities to upsell premium options like skylights or specialty materials.
Pro tip: Promoting these USPs on platforms like Oneflare can help your roofing business stand out and attract clients seeking tailored services that competitors may not offer.
Step 4: Explore funding options for your roofing business
Securing funding for your roofing business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals.
Exploring funding options is a key step in starting your roofing business, ensuring you have the resources to launch and grow successfully. | Source: iStock
Self-funding
Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.
Small business loans
Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.
Secured and unsecured business loans
Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial roofing business supplies, equipment, and transportation assets.
Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your roofing business, like vehicles, roofing tools, and equipment.
Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher.
Government and industry programs
Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.
Equity Investment
Startup roofing businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment. It’s a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to get a stake in the company.
There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.
Step 5: Develop a strategic roofing business plan
Starting a roofing business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business.
Developing a strategic roofing business plan is essential for setting clear goals, outlining growth strategies, and achieving long-term success. | Source: iStock
It should include key elements, such as:
Executive summary
Company profile
Business description
Market analysis
Services offered and pricing strategy
Marketing strategies
Budget and cash flow forecast
Operations plan
Risk mitigation strategy
Long-term growth plan
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your roofing business.
Draft an executive summary
First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your roofing business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.
Write your roofing business description
Your roofing business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your roofing business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location.
Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.
Describe your roofing business niche and types of services
The next step is to define the focus of your roofing business, whether it’s general roof maintenance, roof installations, gutter services, or a specialised niche such as eco-friendly roofing, storm damage repairs, or custom roof designs.
Clarify why you chose this niche and provide a brief description of your target market. For example, your target audience could include homeowners needing reliable roof repairs, businesses seeking durable commercial roofing solutions, or clients looking for unique offerings like sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs, or 24/7 emergency response services.
Aerial inspection highlights clean lines and uniform tile placement on roof. | Source: Australian Renovation Trades
Analyse your market and define your customer base
Once you have completed writing your company profile and roofing business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends.
From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.
Outline your roofing services and pricing strategy
Your business plan should also specify the types of roofing services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.
Detail your marketing and sales plan
For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels—such as social media, SEO, or partnerships—and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.
Create a budget and forecast cash flow
The budget and forecast cash flow is a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue.
Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance.
Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.
Establish an operations plan
The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.
Develop a risk mitigation strategy
After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify key risks when starting a roofing business, such as adverse weather disrupting scheduled projects, injuries sustained while working at heights, and potential property damage during roof installations or repairs. Outline safety protocols and detail the types of business insurance coverage needed, like public liability insurance, or workers’ compensation insurance.
Conclude with a long-term growth plan
Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define both short-term and long-term objectives of your business, such as adding new roofing services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts.
Step 6: Register your roofing business
To start a roofing business, you may need to obtain registrations, licenses and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations.
Building a reliable team for your roofing business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire roofers and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.
First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as roof maintenance, new roof installations, repairing damaged roofs, or designing customised roofing solutions) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.
Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.
Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job
After crafting the job ad, post it on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right roofers for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:
SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.
You might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram if you have a business page. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area.
Don’t overlook employee referrals, either—current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.
Screen and interview thoughtfully
As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, roofing skills, and alignment with your business.
This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they managed challenging roofing projects in the past, dealt with unexpected weather conditions or last-minute changes, or met tight deadlines while delivering high-quality roofing results and ensuring customer satisfaction.
It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your roofers will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality.
Make an offer and onboard your new hire
When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations.
Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to introduce them to your roofing business’s standards, client communication protocols, and the specific workflows or tools they’ll use to ensure efficient and high-quality roofing services.
If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.
Offer ongoing support and fair treatment
A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff.
Step 8: Invest in the right roofing tools and equipment
Having the right tools and equipment is essential for delivering quality roofing services efficiently. From safety gear to specialised tools, investing wisely ensures your business stays competitive and prepared for any project.
Do take note that each roofing business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of some key items, their estimated costs, and where to purchase them in Australia:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.
Step 9: Find clients for your roofing business
Securing clients is crucial for growing your roofing business. From online platforms to local networking, using the right strategies ensures a steady stream of projects and builds your reputation.
Expand your online presence
Building a strong online presence helps potential clients find and trust your business. Leverage it to showcase your services, testimonials, and contact details. And make sure to optimise it for local searches. You might also consider using social media platforms to share project updates and better connect with your community.
Build your roofing business website
A website is essential for establishing your roofing business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.
To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful roofing business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience.
NGP Roofing
NGP Roofing’s website is clean and professional, with a straightforward layout that makes navigation easy. The home page features different company offerings, like competitive pricing and extended warranties, that will surely impress future customers. The website displays different services that it provides and also has the “Add to Quote” functionality that makes it easier for customers to book their services.
NGP Roofing’s website features different company offerings, like competitive pricing and extended warranties, that will surely impress future customers. | Source: NGP Roofing
Sydney Roof Construction
Sydney Roof Construction’s website highlights its expertise through detailed service descriptions and an intuitive layout. The homepage features a clear call to action, encouraging visitors to request quotes or learn more about its offerings. A consistent colour scheme and project galleries help establish the company’s brand identity and showcase its work.
Sydney Roof Construction’s homepage features a clear call to action, encouraging visitors to request quotes or learn more about its offerings. | Source: Sydney Roof Construction
Insulmate Roofing
Insulmate Roofing’s website stands out with its modern design and a clear focus on customer needs. The homepage displays a section that says “Working with Insulmate provides you with peace of mind,” which addresses Insulmate Roofing’s dedication to providing quality workmanship to its customers. The website also has a “Our Services” section that provides pictures of different quality services that they offer.
Insulmate Roofing’s homepage displays a section that says “Working with Insulmate provides you with peace of mind,” which addresses the business’ dedication to providing quality workmanship to its customers. | Source: Insulmate Roofing
Post on lead generation platforms
Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for roofing businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for roofing services, providing an immediate source of leads.
Posting on lead-generation platforms like Oneflare is a highly effective way for roofing businesses to connect with potential clients. | Source: Perfect Glaze Roof Restoration
Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your roofing expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.
Get started on Oneflare by registering your roofing business today—connect with clients, post targeted jobs, and grow your business with ease!
SEO and paid search for visibility
SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.
A Google search results page for “roofing services Sydney Oneflare,” showing top-ranked Oneflare pages offering roofing services and free quotes in NSW. | Source: Google Search
Social media advertising
Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your roofing services and client works visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.
The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a roofing business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Newcastle Roofing Professionals’ Facebook page engages clients with regular updates and high-quality visuals. The page features posts showcasing completed projects, behind-the-scenes content, and client testimonials, which build credibility and trust. Their prompt responses to inquiries and active interaction in comments demonstrate excellent customer service, making it easy for potential clients to connect.
Newcastle Roofing Professionals’ Facebook page features posts showcasing completed projects, behind-the-scenes content, and client testimonials. | Source: Newcastle Roofing Professionals
The Trusty Toolman – Instagram advertising
The Trusty Toolman’s Instagram account attracts clients with a visually appealing and engaging feed. High-quality photos and videos of completed projects and behind-the-scenes content showcase their expertise and attention to detail. Their use of Instagram Stories and Highlights to feature services and quick tips keeps followers informed and engaged, while consistent branding builds trust and recognition.
The Trusty Toolman’s Instagram page attracts clients with a visually appealing and engaging feed. | Source: The Trusty Toolman
JSIU Roofing – TikTok advertising
JSIU Roofing’s TikTok account captures client attention through engaging, short-form videos. Their content includes time-lapse clips of roofing projects, tips for maintaining roofs, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of their team in action. By using trending audio and relatable humour, they make technical services approachable while showcasing their expertise.
JSIU Roofing’s TikTok account uses trending audio and relatable humour, making technical services approachable while showcasing their expertise. | Source: JSIU Roofing
Build your roofing business’s reputation through reviews and referrals
A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new roofing clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.
Building a strong reputation through positive reviews on platforms like Oneflare helps establish credibility and trust, attracting new roofing clients and ensuring long-term business success. | Source: Oracle Carpentry Sydney Pty Ltd
Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently
Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win roofing jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates.
Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:
Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
Zoho Bookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.
These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks.
Step 10: Get paid for your roofing services!
Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to finally get paid for your roofing services. Here’s how:
Simplify payments for your roofing services by offering secure and convenient online payment options for your clients. | Source: iStock
Choose a reliable accounting software
Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.
Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:
Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms.
Many accounting platforms offer customisable roofing services invoice templates, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free roofing invoice templates as a guide:
It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.
Canva’s invoice templates allow businesses to create personalised and visually appealing roofing invoices. | Sources: Canva
It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for different businesses, like a roofing business. The good thing about these templates is that they’re compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.
Conta’s specialised invoice templates are designed to simplify billing for roofing services. | Source: Conta
It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.
Microsoft provides a variety of invoice templates to help roofing businesses manage billing with professional designs and customisations. | Source: Microsoft
The template offers a clean and organized layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.
Zoho’s service invoice templates offer customisable solutions for roofing businesses to streamline billing processes and track payments efficiently | Source: Zoho
Set up a bank account for business payments
Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.
Offer digital payment options
Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking roofing services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.
Establish clear payment terms
Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.
Your path to roofing success starts here — launch your roofing business today!
Starting your roofing business is a step toward a rewarding and profitable career in a high-demand industry. From planning your services to building a strong client base, every step you take brings you closer to long-term growth and success.
If you’re ready to grow your business and connect with new clients, register your business and post your services on Oneflare today. This platform helps businesses like yours reach their target market, secure recurring projects, and establish a trusted reputation. Take the first step, and watch your roofing business thrive with Oneflare!
FAQs on how to start a roofing business
What are the biggest problems roofers face?
Roofers often struggle with lead generation, seasonal demand fluctuations, rising material costs, and labour shortages. Safety concerns, waste disposal, and managing client expectations are additional challenges that require proactive strategies.
How do I handle waste and debris from roofing projects?
How much does it cost to start a roofing business?
Starting costs range from $30,000 to $50,000 for a small business and can exceed $100,000 for larger operations. Key expenses include tools, insurance, a reliable vehicle, marketing, and an initial inventory of materials.
Need help describing that wobbly deck or dripping faucet? A clear and detailed job description sets the stage for a smoother repair process, helping you get more accurate quotes, avoid unexpected costs, and minimise delays.
So, what should you include in your Oneflare job form to connect with the right professional?
Tips from a pro
We sat down with Vinny The All Rounder, a top-rated Australian handyman whose expertise spans concreting, decking, fencing, and household repairs.
With years of experience tackling everything from garden maintenance to custom gates, Vinny has seen firsthand how detailed information leads to successful outcomes and how vague descriptions can turn into expensive problems.
Learn more about Vinny and his experience as an “all-rounder” and get some tips on what to include on your next Oneflare job form.
How long have you had your business?
Vinny: “I have had my business since September 2019. ”
Got complex tasks like sealing a deck or custom fencing? When posting jobs on Oneflare, remember to consider professionals like Vinny with relevant experience.
They’ve likely solved problems similar to yours many times before, which means more efficient solutions and fewer unexpected issues.
How long have you been on the Oneflare platform?
Vinny: “I have been using the Oneflare platform since I opened my business in 2019, so coming on for 6 years.”
Before making your choice, take a few minutes to check ratings, read feedback from previous customers, and look at how professionals respond to concerns.
This quick research will give you insight into their reliability, experience, and problem-solving approach.
What are the most common jobs you do as part of your work?
Vinny: “I do a lot of fencing, landscaping/concrete jobs.”
Not sure what expertise your project needs? Look for versatile pros like Vinny, who handle multiple project types.
Rather than starting fresh with different specialists for each home project, build a relationship with one professional who knows your property’s quirks, history, and personal preferences.
What is the best part of the work that you do?
Vinny: “The best part is that not every day is the same. Because I have maintained/developed a lot of skills, every day is a different job, which is what I truly love about my business.”
When you hire someone who enjoys variety, you’re more likely to find a handyman who creatively approaches each job request rather than applying cookie-cutter solutions.
This mindset often translates to more thoughtful, customised solutions for your situation.
What are the challenging parts of the work that you do?
Vinny: “The challenging part would be explaining to customers that Google does not give accurate pricing. Every job varies in price.”
Always remember that generic online estimates rarely account for your home’s unique characteristics.
Variables like access difficulties, material quality differences, unexpected issues hidden behind walls, and even your property’s age significantly impact final costs.
That’s why detailed job descriptions and photos are valuable when requesting quotes.
What are the top 3 things you recommend for customers to include in their job description when booking a handyman job?
Vinny’s tip #1:“Add as much detail as possible.”
Don’t worry about using technical terms! Just describe what you see and what needs fixing.
Instead of writing ‘repair the bathroom,’ try something like ‘bathroom sink drain clogged and draining slowly, plus towel rack coming loose from the wall.’
For concrete jobs, mention the approximate area size and what it’s for—a small garden path or a large driveway makes a big difference in planning.
When requesting fence repairs, note if it’s a single broken picket or an entire section leaning.
Vinny’s tip #2: “Include photos of of the job.”
A picture can instantly show what you’re dealing with. For house restumping or decking repairs, snap photos of the damaged boards from different angles, including any visible rot underneath.
If you need rubbish removed, photos can help estimate the volume and what equipment to bring. For rental property maintenance, take photos of each issue in each room so your handyman can see the full scope.
When something’s leaking or broken, a close-up or a wider shot showing the surrounding area give added context to the job required.
Vinny’s tip #3:“Provide a clear time frame of the job required.”
Regardless of what job you need help with, be upfront about urgency. For example, if you’re preparing a rental property between tenants, share your deadline for new tenants moving in.
Also, note any upcoming events that might create deadlines for larger projects like custom gates or extensive garden maintenance.
This information helps professionals schedule appropriately and arrive with the right tools and materials on their first visit.
Get your handyman job done right
Handymen like Vinny can deliver your needs when expectations are properly set and managed.
His advice to include detailed descriptions, add helpful photos from multiple angles, and share your timeline expectations makes all the difference between disappointment and satisfaction.
Ready to put these insider tips into practice? Book a handyman expert on Oneflare today!
Starting a gardening business can be a rewarding way to turn your passion for plants and outdoor spaces into a thriving income. Whether you’re looking to take on smaller residential projects or build a broader portfolio, the path to success is about getting the basics right from the beginning.
This guide will give you helpful and practical advice on how to start a gardening business in Australia.
Step 1: Identify the market of your gardening business
Identifying the right market is key to attracting clients and growing your gardening business. Tailor your offerings to the specific needs of your community—whether it’s lawn care, landscaping, or ongoing maintenance. By targeting the right audience and solving their problems, you’ll build a strong reputation and attract clients more effectively.
Explore different types of gardening services
There are various types of gardening services you can offer depending on your skills, equipment, and the needs of your clients. Let’s delve deeper into these common gardening services:
Garden maintenance
Including garden maintenance in your services ensures that your clients’ gardens stay healthy, attractive, and well-maintained year-round. This ongoing care, which includes tasks like general clean up, installing sod or artificial grass, and lawn care helps build lasting relationships with clients. Offering this service creates a steady income stream while enhancing your reputation as a reliable, all-in-one gardening expert.
Regular garden maintenance ensures that the outdoor space stays beautiful, functional, and inviting all year round | Source: Bladerunner Property Services
Garden renovation
Garden renovation involves transforming or revitalising an existing garden to improve its appearance, functionality, or overall design. This can range from minor upgrades to complete overhauls like creating a vertical garden for small spaces and a dedicated area where the client can grow produce like tomatoes or even a sunflower garden– all depending on the client’s needs and vision.
Lawn care and turf installation
Lawn care and turf installation are essential services for homeowners looking to maintain or establish a healthy, vibrant lawn. Properly installing synthetic turf and nurturing the lawn is required to ensure that the client’s lawn stays lush, green, and free of weeds.
Hedge trimming and topiary
Offering hedge trimming and topiary services is essential for maintaining the shape, health, and aesthetics of your clients’ shrubs and bushes. These services help keep gardens looking neat and well-manicured, enhancing their overall appearance. By including them in your offerings, you provide clients with a polished, professional garden that stands out.
Weed management
Weed management is the process of controlling and removing unwanted plants like crabgrass that compete with the garden’s desired plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Effective weed management helps maintain a healthy and attractive garden while preventing weeds from spreading.
Seasonal planting and garden bed design
Seasonal planting and garden bed design keep gardens vibrant year-round by selecting plants that thrive in each season. Preparing the garden for winter with hardy plants ensures it remains healthy and ready to bloom in warmer months.
Offering these services not only enhances the garden’s appeal but also positions you as an expert in maintaining gardens through all seasons.
Irrigation system installation and maintenance
Irrigation system installation and maintenance ensure gardens receive the right amount of water efficiently. Tailored systems like drip irrigation or sprinklers are installed to meet the specific needs of each garden.
Regular upkeep offered by professional gardening services helps prevent damage, conserve water, and support healthy plant growth, making it an essential service for maintaining a thriving garden.
Tree care and pruning
If your gardening business includes creating a rainforest garden, tree care and pruning are essential in maintaining the health and appearance of trees by removing dead or overgrown branches, improving airflow, and promoting healthy growth.
Hardscaping and pathway installation
Hardscaping and pathway installation create durable, attractive features like patios and walkways, enhancing garden functionality and aesthetics. Consider offering expertise in selecting the right synthetic grass to add business value, ensuring your clients a lush, green look that complements their overall garden design.
Hardscaped features such as pathways and patios enhance the usability of a garden while adding to its aesthetic appeal | Source: Bowen, David Paul
Composting and soil improvement services
Composting and soil improvement services enhance soil health by adding organic matter and nutrients. This promotes better drainage, supports healthy plant growth, and helps create a more sustainable, thriving garden.
Choose your gardening business niche
Choosing your gardening business niche is essential for standing out in a competitive market. By focusing on specific types of gardening services, you can target a particular audience and build expertise in that area.
Residential garden maintenance niche
The residential garden maintenance niche focuses on providing ongoing care for homeowners, including lawn mowing, hedge trimming, weeding, and seasonal clean-ups. You can also offer a maintenance service focused on keeping their garden pet-friendly, so that their fur companions can roam around safely and freely.
Pros: Consistent income and long-term client relationships
Cons: Typically priced lower compared to larger landscaping or design projects
Garden design and landscaping niche
The garden design and landscaping niche involves creating customised outdoor spaces, including plant selection, hardscaping, and garden layout design. This niche is extremely helpful especially if you’re working with smaller gardens.
Pros: Opportunity to showcase creativity and design skills
Cons: Requires more expertise, planning, and time due to complexity
The garden design and landscaping niche focuses on crafting tailored outdoor spaces and functional layout designs | Source: Mckenna, John
Organic and sustainable gardening niche
The organic and sustainable gardening niche focuses on eco-friendly practices, using natural methods to grow plants, improve soil health, and reduce environmental impact.
Pros: Attracts clients who value sustainability and green living.
Cons: Requires more specialised knowledge and higher costs for organic products
Edible gardening business niche
The edible gardening business niche focuses on helping clients grow their own fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other edible plants.
Pros: Targets the interest in homegrown food and healthy living
Cons: Clients will need regular guidance to successfully grow and harvest their edible crops.
Commercial and property maintenance niche
The commercial and property maintenance niche involves providing gardening and landscaping services to larger and high-scale clients.
Pros: Opportunity for consistent work, as commercial properties typically require regular maintenance throughout the year.
Cons: Requiresa larger team and more extensive resources to handle bigger projects and maintain multiple properties
Decide on the service area for your gardening business
Determining where to establish or expand your gardening business is crucial for its success. By identifying regions with the highest demand for gardening services, you can position yourself in areas where your business is more likely to thrive.
The table below highlights the demand for gardening services across various cities in Australia, based on Oneflare’s job posting data from 2024. We’ll break down the demand in each city and explore the factors driving the need for professional gardeners in these areas.
Australian cities with the highest gardening job demand
Melbourne leads the gardening business demand in 2024, holding a significant 22.5% share of total job demand. This demand can be attributed to the city’s large urban population, which often requires professional gardening services to maintain private gardens, especially in suburban areas.
Perth follows with an 18.1% share. Perth’s climate and a strong preference for outdoor spaces among residents likely fuel this demand, as regular maintenance is essential to keep gardens thriving in its dry conditions.
Brisbane ranks third with 17.4% of the total demand. Its tropical climate and higher prevalence of greenery mean consistent upkeep is required, driving significant demand for professional gardeners.
Australian cities with lower gardening job demand
Sydney and Adelaide show comparatively lower shares, with Sydney at 16.0% and Adelaide at 5.2%. Although Sydney’s urban density may limit large gardens, its affluent suburbs still provide opportunities. Businesses can cater to Sydney by focusing on niche services such as vertical gardening and rooftop gardens.
Smaller cities like Adelaide present a modest market. However, businesses here can capitalise on less competition and offer premium or specialised services tailored to local preferences, such as native plant landscaping or drought-resistant gardening solutions.
Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the gardening industry
Understanding seasonal trends in the gardening business is essential for managing demand fluctuations and optimising your operations.
For example, gardening services often experience a surge in bookings during spring and summer, as these seasons are ideal for planting, lawn care, and outdoor projects. Winter, though less busy, can offer unique opportunities for tasks like pruning, soil preparation, and garden renovation in preparation for the growing season.
Adapting to seasonal changes is key for a successful gardening business, helping you anticipate customer needs and maintain smooth operations year-round | Source: Eager Beaver Garden Care
Some months may bring a significant influx of clients, while others slow down, making it crucial to plan ahead. By strategically adapting to these seasonal cycles, you can maintain consistent revenue and ensure business stability throughout the year, regardless of demand variations.
Identify popular seasons for gardening services
According to Oneflare’s 2024 data on the total job postings for each type of service, the 2024 seasonality data for gardening services highlights January, October, and February as the peak months for various gardening services in Australia.
Key factors influencing these peak months include seasonal growth patterns, outdoor events, and the need for garden preparations during spring and summer. Warmer weather in these months also encourages homeowners to invest in garden care and landscaping projects.
Peak season for garden maintenance
Garden maintenance sees its busiest months in January, February, and October. The demand in January and February is largely driven by the need to clean up and rejuvenate gardens after the holiday season. Additionally, the fast-growing plants during summer months necessitate regular upkeep.
In October, as spring reaches its peak, homeowners often focus on ensuring their gardens are well-maintained to enjoy outdoor activities and gatherings.
Peak season for garden renovation
Garden renovation demand peaks in October, September, and February. Spring months like October and September are ideal for extensive garden overhauls, as the moderate temperatures and increased rainfall provide optimal conditions for planting and landscaping.
February also experiences a notable rise in demand, likely due to the completion of summer projects and preparations for the autumn season.
Peak season for turf installation
Turf installation is most in demand during October, September, and August. The spring months of October and September are particularly favourable for laying turf, as the mild weather and consistent rainfall help establish new lawns effectively. August also sees an increase in demand as homeowners prepare their outdoor spaces for the upcoming warmer months.
Peak season for lawn mowing
The busiest months for lawn mowing are January, February, and October. During the peak summer months of January and February, lawns grow rapidly due to the warm weather and require frequent mowing. October, with its spring growth surge, also drives significant demand as homeowners aim to keep their lawns well-groomed.
Peak season for lawn care and fertilisation
Lawn care and fertilisation see the highest demand in October, September, and March. Spring months such as October and September are crucial for feeding lawns to encourage growth after winter dormancy. March also marks an important period for fertilisation as homeowners prepare their lawns to endure the cooler autumn months.
Peak season for landscaping services
The busiest months for landscaping services are October, September, and February. October and September, in spring, are ideal for landscaping projects as the mild weather and consistent rainfall create perfect conditions for planting and outdoor transformations.
February sees significant demand as the late summer period allows for the completion of large-scale landscaping projects. This timing ensures that gardens are ready to transition smoothly into autumn while maintaining their aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations
To ensure steady business throughout the year, it’s essential to plan strategies that adapt to seasonal fluctuations. Diversifying your offerings and staying proactive with marketing can help smooth out income gaps and keep your business running consistently, regardless of the season.
Diversify your gardening service offerings
During peak seasons, like spring and summer, focus on high-demand services such as lawn mowing, hedge trimming, and general garden maintenance. Homeowners are more likely to invest in keeping their gardens tidy and vibrant during these months, providing a steady stream of work.
In quieter months, like autumn and winter, pivot to specialised services such as garden design, pruning, or indoor plant care. These tasks are less reliant on the growing season and can keep your business active year-round. Offering one-off services like garden redesigns or indoor plant installations ensures consistent income, even during slower times.
Offer seasonal packages and gardening promotions
Seasonal packages and promotions can help attract clients year-round. In spring and summer, offer deals on lawn care and planting vibrant, warm-weather plants like marigolds or native Australian species. Tailoring your services to the season keeps clients engaged and encourages repeat business.
Plan for flexible staffing
Planning for flexible staffing is key to managing fluctuating demand. As your business grows, consider hiring additional help during peak seasons or for larger projects. When hiring a gardener, look for someone with experience, reliability, and a passion for the work. Flexibly adding staff as needed allows you to meet client demands without overextending yourself.
Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring gardening clients
Posting on lead generation sites like Oneflare can help you secure recurring gardening clients. By listing your services on these platforms, you increase your visibility to homeowners and businesses actively seeking gardening help. With a well-crafted profile and competitive pricing, you can attract clients looking for regular maintenance or long-term care, ensuring a steady stream of work.
Leveraging lead generation platforms like Oneflare connects you with potential clients, increasing your chances of securing recurring gardening projects | Source: Oneflare
Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the gardening industry
Researching market rates and analysing competitors in the gardening industry is essential to set competitive pricing for your services. By understanding the average cost of gardening services in your area, you can ensure your prices are in line with local expectations while maintaining profitability.
Understand the cost of common gardening services
Several factors influence the cost of gardening services, including the size and complexity of the job, the type of services offered, the location of the property, and the equipment and materials needed. Additionally, the level of expertise required and the time it takes to complete the job also play a role in determining the overall cost.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for various gardening services in Australia:
By considering these influences, you can set fair prices that reflect the value of your services while staying competitive in the market.
Please note, however, that the costs mentioned are estimates and may vary depending on the specific job and local market conditions.
Decide how to charge for gardening services
To determine how gardeners must charge, it’s helpful to research local market rates and competitor pricing, while considering your skill level and the quality of service you provide. This will allow you to set fair and competitive rates that attract clients and sustain your business.
Hourly rate for quick gardening services
An hourly rate for quick gardening services is ideal for smaller tasks like lawn mowing or hedge trimming. It allows clients to pay based on the time spent, offering transparency and flexibility.
Setting a competitive hourly rate requires researching local market rates to ensure fair pricing for both you and your clients. Remember not to sell yourself short!
Per-service rates for recurring gardening services and routine maintenance
Per-service rates for recurring gardening services and routine maintenance provide clients with a fixed cost for each visit, making budgeting easier. By offering per-service rates, you create a predictable income stream and build long-term relationships with clients who require ongoing care for their gardens.
Per square metre rates for gardening services like lawn installation and paving
Per square metre rates for gardening services, such as lawn installation and paving, allow clients to pay based on the size of the area being worked on. This pricing model is ideal for larger projects, as it provides a clear, straightforward way to estimate costs.
Project-based rates for large-scale gardening projects
Project-based rates for large-scale gardening projects offer a fixed price for the entire job, regardless of time or materials. This pricing model is ideal for extensive projects like garden design, landscaping, or major renovations, where the scope of work is clear from the start.
Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)
Evaluating your unique selling points (USPs) is crucial for differentiating your gardening business in a competitive market. USPs highlight what sets your services apart.
By identifying and promoting these strengths, you can attract clients who value what makes your business stand out, helping you build a loyal customer base and grow your reputation in the industry.
Eco-friendly and sustainable gardening practices
Eco-friendly and sustainable gardening practices focus on using natural methods to maintain gardens while reducing environmental impact. This approach attracts environmentally conscious clients and promotes a greener future.
Customised garden solutions
These solutions ensure that every garden is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with seasonal gardening practices incorporated to keep spaces thriving year-round. By providing customised services, businesses can address specific needs, creating unique outdoor spaces that perfectly reflect the client’s vision and requirements.
Reliable, consistent, and on-time gardening services
These attributes are essential for building trust and satisfaction with clients. By ensuring punctuality and delivering high-quality work consistently, businesses can foster long-term relationships and a strong reputation.
Clients appreciate dependable services that maintain their gardens to a high standard, making timeliness and reliability key factors in customer retention and business growth.
Full-range gardening services
Full-range gardening services cover all aspects of garden care, from designing retaining walls and landscaping to regular maintenance and seasonal tasks. This comprehensive approach ensures that clients can rely on a single provider for all their gardening needs.
Offering a wide variety of services helps attract diverse clients and builds long-term relationships by providing a complete solution for every garden.
Promoting these USPs on platforms like Oneflare can help your gardening business stand out and attract clients seeking tailored services that competitors may not offer | Source: Sky Tree Lopping
Step 4: Explore funding options for your gardening business
Securing funding for your gardening business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals.
Exploring funding options is a key step in starting your gardening business, ensuring you have the resources to launch and grow successfully | Source: iStock
Self-funding
Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.
Small business loans
Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.
Secured and unsecured business loans
Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial gardening business supplies, equipment, and transportation assets.
Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your gardening business, like vehicles, gardening tools, and equipment.
Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher.
Government and industry programs
Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.
Equity Investment
Equity investment is a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to secure a stake in the company. Startup gardening businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment.
There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.
Step 5: Develop a strategic gardening business plan
Starting a gardening business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business.
Developing a strategic gardening business plan is essential for setting clear goals, outlining growth strategies, and achieving long-term success | Source: iStock
It should include key elements, such as:
Executive summary
Company profile
Business description
Market analysis
Services offered and pricing strategy
Marketing strategies
Budget and cash flow forecast
Operations plan
Risk mitigation strategy
Long-term growth plan
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your gardening business.
Draft an executive summary
First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your gardening business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.
Write your gardening business description
Your gardening business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your gardening business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location.
Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.
Describe your gardening business niche and types of services
The next step is to define the focus of your gardening business, whether it’s regular garden maintenance, landscape design, irrigation system installation, or a specific niche such as organic gardening, edible gardens, or sustainable landscaping.
Clearly defining your gardening business niche helps you target the right clients and showcase your specialised services effectively | Source: Keep It Neat Home And Garden Service
Clarify why you chose this niche and provide a brief description of your target market. For instance, your target audience could be homeowners seeking a well-maintained garden, businesses needing professional landscaping, or individuals looking for unique and personalised gardening solutions such as eco-friendly designs or low-maintenance outdoor spaces.
Analyse your market and define your customer base
Once you have completed writing your company profile and gardening business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends.
From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.
Outline your gardening services and pricing strategy
Your business plan should also specify the types of gardening services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.
Detail your marketing and sales plan
For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels—such as social media, SEO, or partnerships—and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.
Create a budget and forecast cash flow
The budget and forecast cash flow is a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue.
Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance.
Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.
Establish an operations plan
The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.
Develop a risk mitigation strategy
After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify key risks when starting a gardening business, such as adverse weather affecting scheduled work, injuries during a gardening task, and property damage while working on client sites. Outline safety protocols and detail the types of business insurance coverage needed, like public liability insurance and equipment insurance.
Conclude with a long-term growth plan
Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define both short-term and long-term objectives of your business, such as adding new gardening services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts.
Step 6: Register your gardening business
To start a gardening business, you may need to obtain registrations, licenses and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations.
Building a reliable team for your gardening business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire gardeners and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.
Hiring skilled gardeners ensures high-quality service delivery, helping your business maintain a professional image and meet client expectations effectively | Source: Fox Mowing & Gardening
Write job description
First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as garden maintenance, landscape design, installing irrigation systems, or creating themed gardens) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.
Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.
Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job
After crafting the job ad, post it on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right gardeners for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:
SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.
You might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram if you have a business page. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area.
Don’t overlook employee referrals, either—current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.
Screen and interview thoughtfully
As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, gardening skills, and alignment with your business.
This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they managed challenging gardening projects in the past, dealt with unexpected weather conditions or last-minute changes, or met tight deadlines while delivering high-quality gardening results and customer satisfaction.
It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your gardeners will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality.
Make an offer and onboard your new hire
When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations.
Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to introduce them to your gardening business’s standards, client communication protocols, and the specific workflows or tools they’ll use to ensure efficient and high-quality gardening services.
If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.
Offer ongoing support and fair treatment
A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff.
Step 8: Invest in the right gardening tools and equipment
Investing in the right gardening tools and equipment is crucial for delivering efficient and high-quality services. High-quality tools help improve productivity, ensure precision, and reduce time spent on each job.
Bear in mind, though, that each gardening business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of some key items and their estimated costs:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.
Step 9: Find clients for your gardening business
Finding clients for your gardening business involves a mix of networking, marketing, and leveraging online platforms like Oneflare.
By focusing on establishing long-term relationships and showcasing your expertise along with these strategies, you can steadily grow your client base and establish a strong reputation in the community.
Expand your online presence
Expanding your online presence is essential for growing your gardening business and reaching a wider audience. Creating a professional website, engaging on social media platforms, and listing your business online help increase visibility and attract new clients.
Build your gardening business website
A website is essential for establishing your gardening business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.
To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful gardening business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience.
Fox Mowing & Gardening
The Fox Mowing & Gardening website boasts a striking green accent colour to accentuate its relevance to nature. It features an easy-to-navigate layout with a clear portfolio of garden transformations and organised service descriptions. Customer testimonials are prominently displayed, showcasing the business’s reliability and high-quality work.
The Fox Mowing & Gardening website uses a bold green accent colour, reinforcing its connection to nature while ensuring the brand’s services are visually engaging and easy to navigate | Source: Fox Mowing & Gardening
Green Outdoor
Gardening expertise is clearly highlighted In the Green Outdoor website where they address common client pain points such as overgrown lawns and lack of time for garden upkeep. The website copy effectively communicates how the team can solve these issues with professional care and tailored solutions.
The Green Outdoor website highlights gardening expertise by addressing common client concerns like overgrown lawns and lack of time | Source: Green Outdoor Lawn Mowing & Gardening Services
Services are listed with detailed descriptions, ensuring clients understand exactly what’s offered and how it meets their specific needs, making it easy for them to choose the right service.
Rgs Landscape Care
On the Rgs Landscape Care website, landscape maintenance is the main focus, highlighting the team’s skills in keeping gardens vibrant and well-maintained throughout the year. Other services are also clearly listed, offering a full range of solutions. The site provides free quotations, allowing potential clients to easily get an estimate and understand the cost of services upfront.
The Rgs Landscape Care website focuses on landscape maintenance, showcasing the team’s expertise in keeping gardens lush, vibrant, and professionally maintained throughout the year | Source: Rgs Landscape Care
Post on lead generation platforms
Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for gardening businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for gardening services, providing an immediate source of leads.
Posting on lead-generation platforms like Oneflare is a highly effective way for gardening businesses to connect with potential clients | Source: Grass Scorpions
Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your gardening expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.
Get started on Oneflare by registering your gardening business today—connect with clients, post targeted jobs, and grow your business with ease!
SEO and paid search for visibility
SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.
A Google search results page for “gardening services Sydney Oneflare,” showing sponsored listings and top-ranked Oneflare pages offering gardening services and free quotes in Sydney, NSW | Source: Google Search
Social media advertising
Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your gardening work and portfolio visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.
The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a gardening business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Gardener’s Touch – Facebook advertising
The Gardener’s Touch Facebook account features photos and videos of the team in action, showcasing their expertise through real-time project updates. Each post highlights their skill and attention to detail, building trust with potential clients.
The Gardener’s Touch Facebook page highlights their expertise through photos and videos of completed projects and real-time updates | Source: Gardener’s Touch
Must Have Maintenance – Instagram advertising
The Must Have Maintenance Instagram account showcases stunning images of completed garden projects, giving clients a clear view of the team’s craftsmanship. Each photo highlights beautifully designed landscapes, offering potential clients inspiration and a glimpse of what their own gardens could look like after expert care and transformation.
The Must Have Maintenance Instagram account highlights their craftsmanship with stunning images of completed garden projects | Source: Must Have Maintenance
Earth Edge Garden – TikTok advertising
The Earth Edge Garden Tiktok account features captivating content showcasing garden transformations and projects in progress. Each video has a therapeutic feel, with calming visuals of the team at work, turning overgrown spaces into stunning gardens. The soothing pace and satisfying results create a binge-worthy experience, making viewers want to watch more and imagine their own outdoor spaces being transformed.
The Earth Edge Garden TikTok account captures attention with engaging videos of garden transformations and projects | Source: Earth Edge Garden
Build your gardening business’s reputation through reviews and referrals
A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new gardening clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.
Building a strong reputation through positive reviews on platforms like Oneflare helps establish credibility and trust, attracting new gardening clients and ensuring long-term business success | Source: Daniels property maintenance
Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently
Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win gardening jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates.
Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:
Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
Zoho Bookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.
These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks.
Step 10: Get paid for your gardening services!
Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to finally get paid for your gardening services. Here’s how:
Simplify payments for your gardening services by offering secure and convenient online payment options for your clients | Source: iStock
Choose a reliable accounting software
Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.
Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:
Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms.
Many accounting platforms offer customisable gardening services invoice templates, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free gardening invoice templates as a guide:
It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.
Canva’s invoice templates allow businesses to create personalised and visually appealing gardening invoices | Source: Canva
It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for gardening services. The good thing about these templates is that they’re compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.
Conta’s specialised invoice templates are designed to simplify billing for gardening services | Source: Conta
It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.
Microsoft provides a variety of invoice templates to help gardening businesses manage billing with professional designs and customisations | Source: Microsoft
The template offers a clean and organized layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.
Zoho’s service invoice templates offer customisable solutions for gardening businesses to streamline billing processes and track payments efficiently | Source: Zoho
Set up a bank account for business payments
Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.
Offer digital payment options
Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking gardening services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.
Establish clear payment terms
Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.
Cultivate your gardening business with Oneflare today!
Starting your gardening business is an exciting journey, and each step you take nurtures the soil of success. From defining your services to building a loyal client base, every action you take strengthens your reputation and sets you up for long-term growth.
Ready to let your business flourish? Register your gardening business and post your services on Oneflare to connect with homeowners and businesses in need of expert gardening help.
Start today and watch your gardening business flourish!
FAQs on how to start a gardening business
Which is the best example of a sustainable practice that might be used in a garden?
One of the best examples of a sustainable practice in gardening is using native plants. Native plants are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions, meaning they require less water, fertiliser, and pesticides to thrive.
Where is the best place to advertise gardening services?
The best places to advertise gardening services are online platforms like Oneflare, and local business directories, where homeowners and businesses actively search for professional help. Social media platforms are great for showcasing your work.
Traditional methods like flyers and business cards are also effective for attracting local clients. A mix of online and offline advertising helps you reach a broad audience.
How much does it cost to start a gardening business?
Starting a gardening business typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000. Essential expenses include tools (lawnmowers, trimmers), business registration, insurance, and marketing. Costs can vary depending on the scale of your operation, but keeping overheads low in the beginning is key to managing expenses.
Starting a removals business is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to capitalise on the growing demand for relocation services. However, like any business venture, it requires careful planning and execution to ensure success.
A couple of questions arise when starting a removals business. Do I need a license to start a moving company? What permits do I need to start a moving company? How do I find the right audience?
In this article, we’ll answer these questions, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to start a removalist business. We’ll also share valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in this industry.
Step 1: Identify the market of your removals business
Before you plan any further steps, it’s crucial to understand the market you intend to serve. In this stage, you need to understand the various types of moving services so you can choose the right niche based on your expertise, skills, and preferences.
Explore different types of removal and moving services
There are different types of removal and moving services, and each of them caters to a specific market segment.
Full-service moving
Full service moving offers a complete range of services from packing and loading to transportation and unloading at the destination. These services typically handle residential and commercial moves, catering to those who prefer a hassle-free experience and are willing to pay a premium so they don’t forget any important moving needs
Full-service moving companies handle packing, loading, and unloading to make your move hassle-free | Source: James, Strawberry
Furniture moving
Furniture moving is a specialised service that focuses solely on transporting large furniture items, such as sofas, beds, and wardrobes. It’s a suitable choice for customers who need to move only a few large pieces of furniture. For this service, you need to have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle bulky and heavy items.
Local removalist
As a local removalist, you would focus on providing services within a specific geographical area, typically a city or town. This type of business caters to customers who are moving locally and require assistance with packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. Local removalists can offer competitive pricing due to their focus on short-distance moves and familiarity with the local area.
Interstate removalist
An interstate removalist refers to a removals company or business that specialises in long-distance moves across different states or territories. These businesses typically have a fleet of large trucks equipped to handle long-haul transportation, as well as the necessary permits and licenses to operate across multiple jurisdictions. Interstate removalists cater to customers who are relocating to a new state or region, often for employment or personal reasons.
Regional removalists
Regional removalists offer moving services within a specific region or area, spanning multiple cities or towns. These businesses cater to customers who are relocating within a particular region, whether it’s for work, family, or other reasons. Regional removalists have a deep understanding of the local areas they serve, which can be advantageous in terms of route planning and navigating local regulations.
Office relocation services
Office relocation services are perfect for businesses and organisations that need to relocate their office premises. For this service, you need to be equipped with the right techniques for moving an entire office, including disassembling and reassembling furniture, safely transporting office equipment and electronics, and minimising downtime to ensure business continuity.
These services are often tailored to the client’s specific needs, considering factors such as the size of the office, the nature of the business, and any specific requirements or regulations that need to be met.
Packing and unpacking services
Packing and unpacking services involve professional movers handling the entire packing process and unpacking household or office items. The services include packing fragile items, disassembling and reassembling furniture, and ensuring that all belongings are securely packed for safe transportation. Packing and unpacking are useful for customers who want to save time and reduce stress during the moving process.
Packing and unpacking services ensure items are securely prepared for transport, saving time and reducing stress during your move | Source: Speedy Move
Specialised removals
Specialised removals refer to services that cater to the relocation of specific types of items or belongings that require specialised handling, equipment, or expertise. Examples include moving a piano, fine art and antique items, pool tables, or hot tubs and spas. These niche services are typically offered by removalists who have received specialised training and have invested in the necessary equipment to handle such delicate or unique items safely and efficiently.
Storage and removals services
Storage and removal services combine the convenience of temporary storage solutions with the expertise of professional movers. These services are helpful for customers who need to store their belongings for a while during the moving process or for those who require additional storage space.
Removalists offering storage services often have secure and climate-controlled facilities where customers can safely store their household items, furniture, or office equipment. These storage units are available in various sizes to accommodate different needs and can be rented on a short-term or long-term basis.
Interstate backloading services
Interstate backloading services refer to a cost-effective way of transporting goods over long distances. Removalists often consolidate multiple smaller shipments into a single large truck or container, which is then transported to the destination. This allows customers to share the cost of transportation, making it more affordable for those moving interstate or across the country.
Backloading services are particularly useful for moving a smaller volume of goods, or a few pieces of furniture or household items, which is an essential part of any moving interstate checklist. Instead of paying for a full truck or container, they can take advantage of the available space in a larger shipment that is already scheduled to travel to their desired destination.
Choose your removals business niche
Now that you understand the different types of removal and moving services, it’s essential to identify your niche within the industry. This will help you solidify your specific role as a removalist, target the right customers, and differentiate yourself from competitors.
Specialised furniture and item removal business niche
Moving and removing specialised furniture items are perfect if you have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle bulky, delicate, or antique pieces. This niche allows you to cater to customers who value the safe and professional handling of their prized possessions, such as heirlooms, artwork, or high-end furniture.
Pros: Ability to command higher prices for specialised services, the potential for repeat business from satisfied customers with prized possessions, and an opportunity to develop strong relationships with antique dealers, art galleries, or high-end furniture retailers as referral sources.
Cons: Higher risk of damage to valuable items, specialised equipment and training may be required, smaller target market compared to general moving services.
Specialised furniture removals require expertise and equipment to safely handle bulky or delicate items like antiques, artwork, and high-end furniture, catering to customers who value professional care | Source: Advance Movers
Office and corporate relocation niche
If you prefer working with businesses and organisations, the office and corporate relocation niche could be an excellent fit. This specialised service caters to companies that need to relocate their entire operations, including office furniture, equipment, and sensitive documents.
Pros: Potential for larger and more lucrative contracts, opportunity to establish long-term relationships with businesses as a trusted partner, steady workflow with scheduled office moves, potential for recurring business from clients expanding or downsizing.
Cons: Strict deadlines and time constraints, need for specialised equipment and training for handling sensitive materials and equipment, potential liability for any downtime or disruption to client operations.
Interstate and regional removals business niche
An interstate and regional removal business can be a good option if you’re willing to take on long-distance moves. This niche involves transporting belongings across state or regional borders, often over significant distances. It caters to individuals, families, or businesses relocating to a new city or state.
Pros: Potential for larger-scale moves and higher revenue, opportunity to establish a reputation as a reliable long-distance mover, ability to serve a broader geographic area, potential for recurring business from clients who move frequently.
Cons: Longer travel times and increased fuel costs, need for specialised equipment and logistics for long-distance moves, the potential for delays due to weather or road conditions, and more complex scheduling and coordination across multiple locations.
Eco-friendly removals business niche
Catering to eco-conscious clients is a growing trend in the removal industry. This niche focuses on environmentally sustainable practices, such as using recycled or biodegradable packing materials, optimising transportation routes to reduce carbon emissions, and promoting responsible waste disposal.
Pros: Appealing to a growing market segment of environmentally aware customers, the potential to differentiate your business and establish a unique brand identity, opportunities for cost savings through efficient resource utilisation, and aligning with corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Cons: Potentially higher upfront costs for eco-friendly materials and equipment, need for specialised training and certifications, additional logistical considerations for sustainable practices, smaller initial target market compared to traditional removal services.
Small-scale and local moves niche
Focusing on small-scale and local moves can be an excellent niche to consider, especially when starting out. This niche caters to individuals or families relocating within the same city or a nearby area.
Pros: Lower overhead costs with shorter travel distances, the potential for a loyal local customer base, easier coordination and scheduling, opportunities for referrals and repeat business within the community, and reduced logistical complexities compared to long-distance moves.
Cons: Limited revenue potential compared to larger-scale moves, increased competition from other local movers, need for effective local marketing and brand awareness, potential for seasonality in demand depending on the local housing market.
Decide on the service area for your removal business
Determining where to establish or expand your removal business is crucial for its success. By identifying regions with the highest demand for removal services, you can position yourself in areas where your business is more likely to thrive.
The table below highlights the demand for removal services across various cities in Australia, based on Oneflare’s job posting data from 2024. We’ll break down the demand in each city and explore the factors driving the need for professional removalists in these areas.
Australian cities with the highest removals job demand
Sydney leads the removals job market in 2024, capturing 20.78% of the total demand. This high share is driven by Sydney’s high population density and frequent relocations associated with job changes, urban migration, and rental turnovers in a competitive housing market. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle further necessitates professional removal services to streamline the moving process.
Brisbane follows with 16.77% of the total demand. Brisbane’s growing population and suburban expansion contribute to this high demand, as many families and businesses move within and around the area for better housing options and lifestyle improvements.
Melbourne ranks third with 12.71% of the total demand. The city’s significant share is due to its diverse population, which sees frequent residential shifts driven by education, job opportunities, and lifestyle changes, especially among younger professionals and international migrants.
Australian cities with lower removals job demand
While Perth and Newcastle show lower job demand, capturing 9.15% and 4.40% of the total market, respectively, they still present opportunities for removals businesses. Perth’s demand stems from its isolated geography, where professional services are often necessary to facilitate relocations, particularly for long-distance or interstate moves. Newcastle’s smaller market allows businesses to specialise, offering tailored services like handling bulky furniture or providing eco-friendly moving solutions.
For businesses operating in these regions, leveraging local community ties and offering niche services, such as affordable rates for regional moves or specialized packing solutions, can help them capture a loyal customer base in these smaller but steady markets.
Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the removals industry
Understanding seasonal trends in the removals industry is crucial for managing demand fluctuations and optimising your operations. Certain times of the year may see a surge in client requests, such as during the summer when people are more likely to move houses or during holiday periods when businesses relocate. Other times, demand may slow down.
By aligning your services with seasonal needs—like offering discounts during quieter months or promoting advanced bookings before peak seasons—you can maintain a steady revenue stream and ensure the long-term stability of your removals business, regardless of demand fluctuations.
Understanding seasonal trends, such as peak moving periods in summer, allows you to optimise your removals operations and maintain steady revenue with tailored promotions and services | Source: Kahlon Movers
Identify popular seasons for removals services
According to Oneflare’s 2024 data on the total job postings for each type of service, the top months for removals services in 2024 are January, June, and July.
The high demand in January is likely driven by the start-of-year relocation trends, where families and professionals move to align with the new work and school year. June and July show peaks due to mid-year transitions, often related to university moves, changes in rental leases, or seasonal employment shifts.
Peak season for interstate removalist jobs
Interstate removals experience the highest demand in January, December, and June. The surge in January is linked to New Year relocations, while December’s activity stems from end-of-year moves before holidays. June’s peak reflects mid-year adjustments by students and professionals.
Peak season for local removalist jobs
Local removals peak in January, June, and July. These months coincide with seasonal factors like rental turnovers, particularly in urban areas, and individuals taking advantage of the summer break for short-distance moves.
Peak season for regional removalist jobs
Regional removals see the highest demand in January, followed by June and July. These peaks are often driven by families and businesses relocating to suburban or rural areas during the school and financial calendar transitions
Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations
To ensure that your business stays ahead of the curve and ahead of the curve and can effectively manage seasonal demand, consider implementing these strategies:
Offer seasonal promotions and discounts for removal services
Offering seasonal promotions and discounts for removal services is an effective way to attract customers during slower periods and maintain a steady revenue stream throughout the year.
Consider offering discounted rates or package deals during the off-peak months, such as February to May and September to November. These promotions can incentivise customers to book their moves during these quieter times, helping to balance out the workload and cash flow.
Focus on complementary services during slow seasons
During the slower periods in the removal industry, consider diversifying your offerings by focusing on complementary services. These could include storage solutions, packing and unpacking assistance, furniture assembly and disassembly, or even home organisation services.
Encouraging customers to book their removal services well in advance can help you better manage your resources and staffing during peak periods. Offer incentives, such as discounts or priority scheduling, for customers who book their moves several months in advance. This ensures that you can meet the demand during the busiest times and allows you to plan your operations more efficiently.
Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring removals clients
Lead generation sites like Oneflare can be a valuable tool for securing recurring clients for your removal business. The platform allows you to advertise your services and connect with potential removal leads who are actively seeking your services.
One of the main advantages of using Oneflare is that you can potentially establish long-term relationships with customers who require recurring removal services. This could include businesses that frequently relocate employees, property management companies, or individuals who move frequently for work or personal reasons.
When you establish your online presence on Oneflare, you can build a reputable brand that can attract a loyal client base. With the platform’s review system, satisfied customers can leave positive feedback about your services, further enhancing your credibility and attracting new clients.
Lead generation platforms like Oneflare help removal businesses secure recurring clients by showcasing their qualifications, reviews, and services to attract potential leads actively seeking removal assistance | Source: Oneflare
Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the removals industry
Understanding market rates and competitor strategies helps you position your services competitively and meet customer expectations.
Understand the cost of common removal services
Determining how much to charge for moving services requires researching industry standards and analysing local competitors. Factors influencing how much a moving service costs include the type of service, distance, and the volume of items being moved. Offering competitive yet sustainable pricing ensures your business remains attractive to customers while covering operational expenses.
Here’s how much most removal and moving services in Australia cost:
$80 to $150 per item or $150 to $600 for multiple items
Office relocations cost
$500 to $3,000+, depending on office size, equipment, and distance
Emergency removals cost
$150 to $300 per hour
Backloading removals cost
$800 to $2,000+
These cost ranges are intended as general estimates and may vary based on location, specific requirements, and individual service providers. Keep in mind that additional factors, such as special handling or last-minute bookings, may influence the final cost.
Decide how to charge for removal and moving services
When clients hire a removalist, most often, the first thing they want to know is how much it’s going to cost them. As mentioned above, the removalist labour hire prices may vary so it’s vital to have various pricing options to meet different customer needs and budgets.
Hourly rate for local moves with short distances
For local moves with short distances, many removalists charge an hourly rate. This pricing model is suitable for moves that don’t require extensive travel or a full day’s work. The hourly rate typically covers the cost of labour, fuel, and transportation for a specified number of movers and a truck. Additional fees may apply for extra services like packing, disassembly/reassembly of furniture, or handling specialty items.
Fixed quotes for long-distance or interstate moves
Many removalists provide fixed quotes based on the total volume or weight of the belongings, the distance travelled, and any additional services required (e.g., packing, storage). Fixed quotes offer customers transparency and predictability regarding the total cost upfront.
To calculate an accurate fixed quote, you can conduct an in-home survey or virtual assessment to evaluate the scope of the move.
Per cubic metre pricing for transporting large or irregularly shaped items
Per cubic metre pricing is a common approach for removalists when transporting large or irregularly shaped items that don’t fit neatly into standard and free boxes or containers. This pricing model charges based on the total cubic volume of space the items occupy in the moving truck or container.
The key benefits of per cubic metre pricing include fairness, flexibility, and transparency. Here, you’ll need to carefully measure and calculate the total cubic space required for the customer’s items during the pre-move assessment. Factors like item fragility, handling requirements, and any necessary disassembly/reassembly can also impact the final per cubic metre rate you charge.
Per item or service-based charges for specialised removals
For certain types of specialised removals, removalists often charge per item or per service provided. This pricing approach is suitable when handling fragile, valuable, or oversized items that require extra care and specialised equipment or expertise.
The per item or service fee usually covers the additional labour, materials, and specialised equipment required to safely move or handle these items. You may also factor in the level of expertise and care needed to ensure the items are properly protected during the move.
Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)
Another important factor to consider is your unique selling points (USPs) that differentiate your removal business from competitors. Perhaps you offer specialised services or maybe you provide eco-friendly packing materials and sustainable moving practices. Identifying and promoting your USPs can help attract customers who value those specific offerings.
Guaranteed damage-free relocation
One USP for a removal business could be offering a guaranteed damage-free relocation service. This assurance would provide customers with peace of mind, knowing their belongings are in safe hands and will arrive at their new location in the same condition they left. This could involve using specialised packing materials, customised crating for fragile items, and advanced equipment like air-ride trucks to minimise jarring during transport.
All-in-one moving solutions
Another compelling USP is offering all-in-one moving solutions. This comprehensive approach streamlines the entire relocation process for customers by providing a wide range of services under one roof. From packing and crating to transportation, storage, and unpacking at the new location, an all-in-one moving solution simplifies the logistics and reduces stress for customers.
Flexible scheduling and emergency moves
Customers often have specific timelines and constraints when it comes to moving, and the ability to accommodate their schedules can be a significant advantage. Flexible scheduling could involve providing evening, weekend, or even 24/7 availability for bookings and moves, ensuring that customers can plan their relocation at a time that’s most convenient for them.
Providing emergency move services can also be a valuable USP. Unexpected situations, such as natural disasters, landlord disputes, or sudden job relocations, can necessitate a swift and efficient move. With this unique offer, you can cater to customers in urgent need, providing a timely solution and reducing their stress during a challenging period.
Eco-friendly moving practices
As environmental consciousness continues to grow, offering eco-friendly moving practices can be a unique USP for a removal business. Customers are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions that minimise their environmental impact, and businesses that prioritise green initiatives can differentiate themselves from competitors.
One eco-friendly approach is to use reusable and recyclable packing materials, such as biodegradable packing peanuts, recycled cardboard boxes, and cloth blankets instead of plastic wrap. This reduces waste and appeals to environmentally conscious customers who want to minimise their carbon footprint.
Don’t forget to formalise agreements with a detailed removalist contract to avoid misunderstandings and ensure transparency with clients. Additionally, using a moving invoice template or a removal invoice template can streamline your billing process, keeping records organised and professional.
Promoting these USPs on platforms like Oneflare can help your removals business stand out and attract clients seeking tailored services that competitors may not offer | Source: Moush’s Removals
Step 4: Explore funding options for your removals business
Securing funding for your removals business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals.
Exploring funding options is a key step in starting your removals business, ensuring you have the resources to launch and grow successfully | Source: iStock
Self-funding
Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.
Small business loans
Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.
Secured and unsecured business loans
Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial removals business supplies, equipment, and transportation assets.
Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your removals business, like vehicles, removal and moving tools, and equipment.
Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher.
Government and industry programs
Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.
Equity Investment
Startup removals businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment. It’s a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to get a stake in the company.
There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.
Step 5: Develop a strategic removals business plan
Starting a removals business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business.
Developing a strategic removals business plan is essential for setting clear goals, outlining growth strategies, and achieving long-term success | Source: iStock
It should include key elements, such as:
Executive summary
Company profile
Business description
Market analysis
Services offered and pricing strategy
Marketing strategies
Budget and cash flow forecast
Operations plan
Risk mitigation strategy
Long-term growth plan
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your removals business.
Draft an executive summary
First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your removals business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.
Write your removals business description
Your removals business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your removals business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location.
Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.
Describe your removals business niche and types of services
The next step is to define the focus of your removals business, whether it’s general residential moving, interstate relocations, furniture transport, or a specialised niche such as office relocations or eco-friendly moving services.
Clarify why you chose this niche and provide a brief description of your target market. For example, your target audience could include homeowners needing reliable local moves, businesses seeking large-scale office relocations, or clients looking for specialised offerings like sustainable packing solutions, fragile item transport, or 24/7 emergency removal services.
Defining your removals business niche, such as residential moving or specialised services like fragile item transport, helps you target the right audience and build a focused, successful operation | Source: JB Removals
Analyse your market and define your customer base
Once you have completed writing your company profile and removals business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends.
From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.
Outline your removals services and pricing strategy
Your business plan should also specify the types of removal services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.
Detail your marketing and sales plan
For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels—such as social media, SEO, or partnerships—and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.
Create a budget and forecast cash flow
The budget and forecast cash flow is a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue.
Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance.
Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.
Establish an operations plan
The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.
Develop a risk mitigation strategy
After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify key risks when starting a removals business, such as damage to clients’ belongings during transit, injuries sustained while lifting or moving heavy items, and liability issues related to delays or miscommunication about services. Outline safety protocols and detail the types of business insurance coverage needed, like public liability insurance, or workers’ compensation insurance.
Conclude with a long-term growth plan
Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define both short-term and long-term objectives of your business, such as adding new removal services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts.
Step 6: Register your removals business
To start a removals business, you may need to obtain registrations, licenses and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations.
Building a reliable team for your removals business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire removalists and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.
Hiring skilled removalists who can handle tasks like furniture assembly ensures your removals business meets customer expectations and builds a reliable reputation | Source: Blitz Removals
Write job description
First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as packing and wrapping items, safely transporting furniture, assembling and disassembling furniture, or loading and unloading trucks) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.
Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.
Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job
After crafting the job ad, post it on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right removalists for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:
SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.
You might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram if you have a business page. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area.
Don’t overlook employee referrals, either—current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.
Screen and interview thoughtfully
As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, removal and moving skills, and alignment with your business.
This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they managed challenging removal projects in the past, dealt with narrow access points or difficult-to-move items, or met tight deadlines while ensuring safe transport and delivering excellent customer satisfaction.
It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your removalists will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality.
Make an offer and onboard your new hire
When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations.
Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to introduce them to your removals business’s standards, client communication protocols, and the specific workflows or equipment they’ll use to ensure efficient and high-quality moving services.
If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.
Offer ongoing support and fair treatment
A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff.
Step 8: Invest in the right removal tools and equipment
Having the appropriate moving tools and equipment ensures efficient and safe handling of clients’ belongings. With the right equipment, you can minimise the risk of damage, increase productivity, and ultimately provide a smoother and more professional service to your customers.
Each removals business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of key items, their estimated costs, and where to purchase them in Australia:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.
Step 9: Find clients for your removals business
Once everything is set, it’s time to find clients for your business. This includes expanding your online presence so you can build your reputation and gather positive reviews from your clients. You will also need to be proactive in managing your bookings and quotes efficiently.
Expand your online presence
Having a strong online presence is crucial for removals businesses. Thankfully, there are various methods you can employ to expand your online presence and reach potential customers:
Build your removals business website
A website is essential for establishing your removals business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.
To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful removals business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience.
Advance Movers’ website
The Advance Movers website does a great job of keeping things simple and easy to navigate, which is perfect for anyone planning a move. It’s clear about what they offer—house moves, office relocations, and even packing services—and there’s a handy “Get a Free Quote” button right up front to make reaching out hassle-free. They also highlight key details like their no-hidden-fee policy and professional experience, which helps build trust.
Advance Movers’ website keeps navigation simple, with clear service descriptions and a prominent “Get a Free Quote” feature, ensuring an easy and trustworthy customer experience | Source: Advance Movers
AAA City Removalist’s website
The AAA City Removalist website is clean, modern, and easy to navigate making it easy for visitors to find what they need. With clear service descriptions, pricing transparency, and simple online booking, customers can quickly see how the company makes moving easier. Trust is built through visible reviews and certifications, while straightforward calls-to-action (CTAs) guide users to take the next step.
All in all, the website offers a smooth, stress-free experience that reflects the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
The AAA City Removalist website combines clear service descriptions, reviews, and certifications with user-friendly navigation and calls-to-action, offering a seamless and trustworthy experience for customers | Source: AAA City Removalist
CutRate Removals’ website
The Cut Rate Removals website strikes a great balance between a professional look and engaging content. The homepage highlights the key services and benefits with visuals and clear messaging. Customer satisfaction is also their priority, with testimonials and a clear call to action that encourages users to take the next step. It’s easy to navigate, providing a positive and informative experience for anyone considering their services.
The Cut Rate Removals website combines engaging visuals, clear service descriptions, and customer-focused messaging, offering a professional and user-friendly experience for potential clients | Source: Cut Rate Removals
Post on lead generation platforms
Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for removals businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for removal services, providing an immediate source of leads.
Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your removal and moving expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.
Platforms like Oneflare help removals businesses connect with clients actively seeking services, offering a risk-free way to showcase expertise, build trust through reviews, and attract targeted leads | Source: Red Storm Removals
Get started on Oneflare by registering your removals business today—connect with clients, post targeted jobs, and grow your business with ease!
SEO and paid search for visibility
SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.
Leverage SEO and paid search to boost your website’s visibility and attract organic traffic | Source: Google Search
Social media advertising
Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your removal services and client works visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.
The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a removals business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
777 World Removals Pty Ltd – Facebook advertising
The 777 World Removals Pty Ltd Facebook page is all about keeping things informative and engaging. They post real visuals from their recent jobs, which helps build trust with their audience. The content is easy to read, offering tips or updates that are useful for anyone looking to move. Plus, their contact details are right at their fingertips, and with auto-reply in place, inquiries are acknowledged quickly. It’s a friendly, approachable page that makes reaching out and staying connected simple.
The 777 World Removals Facebook page combines informative posts, real visuals, and quick response features, creating an approachable platform for potential clients to learn about their services and get in touch easily | Source: 777 World Removals
Crusader Removals – Instagram advertising
Crusader Removals’ Instagram page effectively engages followers by regularly posting customer reviews and showcasing how they support the community. Their consistent use of black and red business colours gives the page a strong, recognisable brand identity. The contact details and website links are easy to find, ensuring that potential clients can reach out or learn more quickly.
Crusader Removals’ Instagram page effectively engages followers with customer reviews, consistent branding, and community-focused posts | Source: Crusader National
Movalist – TikTok advertising
Movalist’s TikTok page stands out with engaging and interactive content. They feature interviews with people about moving, offer helpful tips, and share informative videos on moving preparations. The captions are engaging, and the variety of videos ensures the content stays fresh and interesting. Their location and contact details are easy to find, making it simple for followers to reach out while enjoying useful moving-related content.
Movalist’s TikTok page uses engaging videos and interactive content to entertain and inform followers, while clear contact details make it easy for potential clients to connect | Source: Movalist
Build your removals business’s reputation through reviews and referrals
A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new removal clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.
Building a strong reputation through consistent client reviews on platforms like Oneflare enhances credibility and attracts new clients, ensuring long-term success for your removal business | Source: Smiley’s Furniture Removals
Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently
Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win removalist jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates.
Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:
Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
Zoho Bookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.
These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks.
Step 10: Get paid for your removal services!
Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to finally get paid for your removal services. Here’s how:
Simplify payments for your removals services by offering secure and convenient online payment options for your clients | Source: iStock
Choose a reliable accounting software
Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.
Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:
Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms.
Many accounting platforms offer customisable removal services invoice templates, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free removal invoice templates as a guide:
It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.
Canva’s invoice templates allow businesses to create personalised and visually appealing removal invoices | Source: Canva
It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for different businesses, like a removals business. The good thing about these templates is that they’re compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.
Conta’s specialised invoice templates are designed to simplify billing for removal services | Source: Conta
It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.
Microsoft provides a variety of invoice templates to help removals businesses manage billing with professional designs and customisations | Source: Microsoft
The template offers a clean and organized layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.
Zoho’s service invoice templates offer customisable solutions for removals businesses to streamline billing processes and track payments efficiently | Source: Zoho
Set up a bank account for business payments
Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.
Offer digital payment options
Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking removal services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.
Establish clear payment terms
Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.
Kickstart your removals business – join Oneflare today!
Starting a removals business requires careful planning, from understanding the type of services to offer to deciding on your pricing model.
In this article, we’ve covered key steps like planning for seasonal strategies, exploring your funding options, and identifying unique selling points to set yourself apart. Remember that in business, the key is consistency and transparency. The more trustworthy you are, the more customers you will attract, regardless of the marketing strategies you use.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge, why not take the next step? Post your services on Oneflare to connect with potential clients and get your removals business moving forward. It’s time to turn your plans into action!
FAQs on how to start a removals business
How to handle fragile items during a move?
To handle fragile items, use high-quality packing materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and sturdy boxes. Carefully label these boxes as “fragile” to ensure movers handle them with extra care.
How long does it take to move a house in Australia?
The time it takes to move a house in Australia depends on the size of the home, the amount of belongings, and the distance. Typically, local movers take between 4 to 8 hours to finish a whole moving house checklist, while long-distance moves can take several days, depending on the distance and logistics.
How much does it cost to start a removals business?
The total cost of starting a removals business will ultimately depend on how big you want to start, but these are the general areas you will need to plan for. Generally, key expenses include the purchase or lease of suitable vehicles, securing proper licenses and insurance, acquiring necessary equipment, and covering operational costs such as staffing and marketing.
Starting a carpentry business in Australia can feel like a big step, especially when you’re working with limited resources and handling everything on your own. From deciding your service area and evaluating your niche to hiring your carpenters and securing your first clients, the early stages of this type of business require careful planning and the right strategies to succeed.
This guide will show you how to start a carpentry business on a small scale, focusing on practical steps to build your portfolio, attract clients, and set your business up for steady growth. With the right approach, you can establish yourself as a trusted carpenter and create opportunities for long-term success in the industry.
Step 1: Identify the market of your carpentry business
Before launching your carpentry business, it’s crucial to identify the services that are most needed in your area. Understanding the demand will help you focus on the right offerings, attract clients more effectively, and position your business to stand out in a competitive market.
Explore different types of carpentry services
As outlined by the Australian Government, carpenters are highly skilled in constructing, installing, renovating, and repairing structures and fixtures using wood, plywood, wallboard, and other materials. With a wide range of services to offer, it’s important to focus on those that match your expertise and appeal to your target clients.
Below are some of the most types of carpentry services in Australia.
Custom furniture making
Custom furniture making involves designing and building unique, high-quality furniture pieces tailored to a client’s specifications. This service appeals to homeowners looking for bespoke solutions that reflect their personal style and add value to their space.
Cabinetry and joinery
Cabinetry and joinery services focus on creating built-in cabinets, shelves, and storage solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, and other parts of the home. This service is ideal for residential renovations and small commercial projects where precision and craftsmanship are key.
Cabinetry and joinery services offer bespoke built-in solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics in any home | Source: J & C Cabinets (Vic)
Home renovation carpentry
Home renovation carpentry includes tasks like installing doors, building stairs, adding skirting boards, and trims, as well as building outdoor sheds. It’s an essential service for clients looking to renovate their homes without taking on full-scale construction work.
Commercial carpentry
Commercial carpentry involves larger-scale projects such as fitting out offices, retail spaces, or restaurants. This service requires working with businesses to provide functional and aesthetically pleasing woodwork solutions that meet industry standards.
Outdoor carpentry
Outdoor carpentry focuses on creating decks, installing pergolas, repairing fences, and building garden features. These projects appeal to homeowners looking to improve their outdoor living spaces and add value to their properties.
Wooden flooring installation and repair
Wooden flooring services include installing new wooden floors or repairing existing ones to restore their appearance. This service is in demand for both residential and commercial properties, where durability and a polished look are priorities.
Wooden flooring installation and repair services are vital for creating durable and polished spaces, whether for residential or commercial properties | Source: Timberland Joinery
Bespoke carpentry
Bespoke carpentry offers custom, one-of-a-kind woodwork solutions, including tailored furniture, decorative features, and detailed joinery. This service attracts high-end clients seeking unique, handcrafted elements for their homes or businesses.
Shopfitting and retail displays
Shopfitting carpentry involves building custom shelving, counters, and display units for retail stores. This service helps businesses optimise their space and create a professional, attractive layout to showcase their products.
Carpentry for building construction
Carpentry for building construction services and businesses includes tasks like framing walls, installing roof trusses, and other structural woodwork for residential or small commercial projects. This service requires collaboration with builders and contractors to deliver reliable results.
Restoration and heritage carpentry
Restoration carpentry focuses on repairing and preserving historical woodwork in heritage homes or buildings. It involves specialised skills to maintain the integrity of original designs while ensuring the structure remains functional and safe.
Custom floor design and inlays
Custom floor design and inlays involve crafting decorative wooden floor patterns, borders, or inlays to enhance the aesthetics of a space. This service appeals to clients seeking high-end finishes and personalised flooring solutions.
Choose your carpentry business niche
Selecting a niche for your carpentry business allows you to focus your skills, attract the right clients, and differentiate yourself in the carpentry market. By specialising in a particular area, you can develop expertise, deliver higher-quality work, and build a reputation that sets you apart from general carpenters.
Custom furniture niche
The custom furniture niche involves designing and crafting one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to a client’s specific needs. This niche requires creativity and attention to detail, catering to homeowners or businesses looking for unique and functional designs.
Pros: High demand for unique, handcrafted furniture pieces.
Cons: Can be time-consuming and may require specialised tools and a well-equipped workshop.
Outdoor carpentry niche
Outdoor carpentry focuses on building structures such as decks, pergolas, fences, and garden features that enhance residential or commercial outdoor spaces. It’s a popular niche in Australia, where outdoor living is a key part of home improvement and lifestyle.
Pros: Steady demand for outdoor improvements, especially in residential areas.
Cons: Work is weather-dependent, and may require durable materials and outdoor-grade tools.
Cabinetry and kitchen renovation niche
This niche includes designing custom cabinets, shelving, and storage solutions as part of kitchen and bathroom renovations. It is a highly sought-after service, as many homeowners look to improve functionality and style in these essential spaces.
Pros: Strong demand from homeowners undertaking kitchen and bathroom upgrades.
Cons: Requires precision and can involve tight project timelines to meet client expectations.
Heritage restoration niche
Heritage restoration carpentry involves repairing, restoring, and preserving original woodwork in heritage-listed homes and buildings. This niche requires a deep understanding of traditional carpentry techniques to maintain historical integrity while ensuring structural safety.
Pros: Niche market with opportunities for high-value, specialised projects.
Cons: Projects can be labour-intensive and require expertise in traditional carpentry techniques and materials.
Commercial shopfitting niche
The commercial shopfitting niche focuses on creating customised interiors, including counters, shelves, and displays, for retail shops, offices, and restaurants. It often involves balancing functionality and aesthetics to create spaces that are both visually appealing and practical for businesses.
Pros: Offers high-value contracts with the potential for ongoing business relationships.
Cons: Often involves strict deadlines and requires compliance with industry-specific standards and regulations.
Specialising in the commercial shopfitting niche allows businesses to provide customised interiors for retail, office, and dining spaces | Source: Timberland Joinery
Decide on the service area for your carpentry business
Determining where to establish or expand your carpentry business is crucial for its success. By identifying regions with the highest demand for carpentry services, you can position yourself in areas where your business is more likely to thrive.
The table below highlights the demand for carpentry services across various cities in Australia, based on Oneflare’s job posting data from 2024. We’ll break down the demand in each city and explore the factors driving the need for professional carpentry in these areas.
Australian cities with the highest carpentry job demand
Melbourne leads the market with 28.9% of the total carpentry job demand in Australia. The city’s high demand stems from its continuous urban development and vibrant construction industry. Renovation projects and an increasing number of property developments contribute significantly to the need for skilled cabinet makers and carpenters.
Sydney ranks second, capturing 20.7% of the job demand. As one of Australia’s largest metropolitan areas, Sydney experiences a steady demand for carpentry due to a mix of residential and commercial projects, including home renovations and commercial fit-outs in its bustling urban spaces.
Brisbane follows with 18.3%, driven by its growing population and housing sector. The city’s expansion in suburban developments and infrastructure improvements supports a robust market for carpentry services.
Australian cities with lower carpentry job demand
Perth, accounting for 12.8% of demand, and Adelaide, with 4.2%, represent markets with comparatively lower demand. Even so, small cities like them still hold opportunities. Perth’s demand is largely linked to its suburban housing market, while Adelaide’s slower-paced development allows carpentry businesses to focus on specialised services like custom furniture making and heritage restoration.
In these smaller regions, carpentry businesses can stand out by targeting niche markets and offering unique services that cater to local demand, such as bespoke carpentry for renovations or eco-friendly building practices.
Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the carpentry industry
Understanding seasonal trends in the carpentry industry is essential for managing fluctuations in demand and optimising operations. Certain times of the year may see an increase in client requests, while other periods may experience a slowdown.
By aligning your services with seasonal needs—such as promoting indoor carpentry projects like cabinetry or custom furniture during winter—you can maintain steady revenue and ensure the long-term stability of your carpentry business, regardless of demand fluctuations.
Planning for seasonal trends in the carpentry industry ensures your business can adapt to fluctuations in demand | Source: Tradie Taskforce East Melbourne
Identify popular seasons for carpentry services
According to Oneflare’s 2024 data on the total job postings for each type of service, the top three peak months for carpentry services in 2024 are March, October, and January. These months represent periods of high activity in the carpentry sector, driven by a combination of seasonal trends, consumer demand, and project timelines.
March typically sees the highest demand, fuelled by favourable weather conditions ideal for construction and outdoor projects. Additionally, many clients resume home improvement and renovation plans after the summer holidays, making it a busy time for carpenters.
January also experiences significant demand as homeowners and businesses look to start the year. During this month, most of these clients are executing their renovation plans, setting new goals, and initiating fresh projects.
October marks another month with a demand for carpentry jobs, driven by a mix of pre-summer renovations and preparations for the peak real estate season. Clients often seek carpentry services to complete home upgrades, outdoor spaces, or aesthetic improvements before the busy holiday period or to align with real estate market trends.
These three months provide excellent opportunities for carpenters to capitalise on heightened demand and maximise their business growth.
Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations
Seasonal fluctuations can impact the demand for carpentry services, with slower periods creating uncertainty for many small business owners. By planning ahead and implementing strategies to keep work steady, you can maintain consistent income and stay productive throughout the year.
Plan ahead for peak seasons and book carpentry projects in advance
Peak seasons, such as warmer months when outdoor projects are popular, can bring a surge in demand for carpentry services. To maximise these opportunities, reach out to clients in advance and schedule projects ahead of time. This ensures you have a steady pipeline of work during busy periods and can manage your workload effectively.
Diversify your carpentry service offerings
Expanding your range of services can help you adapt to slower seasons and attract new clients year-round. For example, if outdoor carpentry slows during winter, you can shift your focus to indoor projects like cabinetry, furniture repairs, or home renovations. Offering a variety of services allows you to fill gaps during seasonal lulls.
Build relationships with other industries needing regular carpentry services
Collaborating with industries such as real estate, property management, or building and construction can provide consistent work throughout the year. For example, property managers often need carpenters for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and renovations, while real estate agents may require upgrades to prepare homes for sale. Building these relationships can lead to repeat projects and long-term partnerships.
Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring carpentry clients
Using lead generation platforms like Oneflare can help you connect with homeowners and businesses looking for carpentry services, even during slow periods. By consistently promoting your services and building a reputation on these platforms, you can secure recurring clients and maintain a steady flow of projects throughout the year.
Post your carpentry services on lead generation sites like Oneflare to build a steady client base and secure recurring projects year-round, even during slower periods | Source: Oneflare
Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the carpentry industry
Before setting your prices, it’s essential to research the market rates for carpentry services and assess the competition in your area. Understanding how other carpenters price their work and what services are in demand will help you set competitive rates and position yourself effectively in the market.
Understand the cost of common carpentry services
Carpentry costs can vary depending on the type of service, materials used, project complexity, and location. By familiarising yourself with average price ranges, you can confidently decide how much to charge for your carpentry work while ensuring they align with industry standards and client expectations.
Here, let’s look at how much carpentry services cost in Australia:
Do take note that the costs listed above are average estimates and may vary depending on factors such as location, materials used, project complexity, and individual service providers. It’s important to conduct your own research and tailor quotes to suit your specific business and client requirements.
Decide how to charge for carpentry services
Deciding the pricing structure for your carpentry services ensures you’re fairly compensated for your work while keeping your rates competitive. Different types of projects may require different pricing methods, depending on the scope, complexity, and duration of the job.
Hourly rate for furniture repairs and minor installation
Charging an hourly rate is ideal for smaller jobs like furniture repairs, door hanging, or minor installations where the work can be completed within a short timeframe. This method ensures you’re paid for the time spent on the project, including any unexpected challenges that may arise.
Clients also appreciate the transparency of hourly rates, as it allows them to estimate costs for small, straightforward tasks without committing to a large project.
Flat project rates for defined carpentry projects like kitchen cabinetry
Flat project rates are well-suited for clearly defined carpentry tasks such as building custom cabinetry, fitting shelves, or renovating kitchens, where the scope and timeline are agreed upon upfront. This pricing structure allows you to include the cost of materials, labour, and other expenses in a single, fixed price, providing clarity for both you and your client.
It also reduces the likelihood of disputes over costs, as the client knows exactly what they will pay for the completed project.
Cost per square metre for large-scale projects like decking
For large-scale projects such as decking, flooring installation, or timber retaining walls, charging per square metre provides a consistent and straightforward pricing method. This approach accounts for the size of the job and helps clients clearly understand how the costs are calculated.
It’s particularly useful for jobs that require significant material usage, as you can factor in variations in material costs and project complexity to ensure you remain profitable.
Milestone or staged payments for complex projects like bespoke carpentry
Milestone or staged payments are ideal for large, complex projects such as bespoke furniture, full-home renovations, or shop fitting. This structure involves breaking the total cost into payments tied to project milestones—such as an initial deposit, progress payments, and a final payment upon completion. It ensures steady cash flow throughout the project while giving clients confidence that payments align with work progress, reducing risk for both parties.
Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)
Identifying your unique selling points (USPs) will set your business apart from other carpenters and give your clients a reason to choose you over others. Highlighting these strengths will help you attract the right clients and build your reputation.
Custom carpentry solutions for every client
Offering custom carpentry solutions allows you to tailor projects to suit your client’s specific needs, styles, and preferences.
Whether it’s bespoke furniture, tailored cabinetry, or one-of-a-kind outdoor structures, personalised services demonstrate your ability to deliver unique results that can’t be bought off the shelf. This level of customisation appeals to homeowners and businesses looking for creative solutions that enhance the functionality and aesthetic of their spaces.
Eco-friendly materials and sustainable carpentry practices
Incorporating eco-friendly materials and sustainable carpentry practices can be a strong differentiator for your business. By using responsibly sourced timber, reclaimed wood, or low-waste methods, you can attract environmentally conscious clients looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Promoting sustainability not only helps the environment but also positions your business as forward-thinking and aligned with modern values.
Exceptional attention to detail and quality carpentry
Exceptional attention to detail ensures that every cut, joint, and finish is crafted to perfection, delivering results that exceed client expectations. Whether you’re working on small repairs or large bespoke projects, focusing on precision and quality will set you apart from competitors. Clients value carpenters who take pride in their work and are willing to go the extra mile to achieve flawless results that stand the test of time.
End-to-end carpentry service from design to installation
Providing end-to-end carpentry services means managing every stage of a project, from initial consultation and design to final installation. This comprehensive approach simplifies the process for clients, as they only need to work with one provider to bring their vision to life. Offering a complete service builds trust, ensures consistency, and positions you as a reliable expert who can handle all aspects of a project seamlessly.
Promoting these USPs on platforms like Oneflare can help your carpentry business stand out and attract clients seeking tailored services that competitors may not offer | Source: Prolux Carpentry Group
Step 4: Explore funding options for your carpentry business
Securing funding for your carpentry business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals.
Exploring funding options is a key step in starting your construction business, ensuring you have the resources to launch and grow successfully | Source: iStock
Self-funding
Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.
Small business loans
Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.
Secured and unsecured business loans
Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial carpentry business supplies, equipment, and transportation assets.
Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your carpentry business, like vehicles, carpentry tools, and equipment.
Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher.
Government and industry programs
Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.
Equity Investment
Startup carpentry businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment. It’s a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to get a stake in the company.
There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.
Step 5: Develop a strategic carpentry business plan
Starting a carpentry business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business.
Developing a strategic construction business plan is essential for setting clear goals, outlining growth strategies, and achieving long-term success | Source: iStock
It should include key elements, such as:
Executive summary
Company profile
Business description
Market analysis
Services offered and pricing strategy
Marketing strategies
Budget and cash flow forecast
Operations plan
Risk mitigation strategy
Long-term growth plan
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your carpentry business.
Draft an executive summary
First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your carpentry business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.
Write your carpentry business description
Your carpentry business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your carpentry business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location.
Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.
Describe your carpentry business niche and types of services
The next step is to define the focus of your carpentry business, whether it’s general carpentry services, custom furniture making, cabinetry, outdoor structures like decking, or a specialised niche such as eco-friendly woodworking or bespoke designs.
Clarify why you chose this niche and provide a brief description of your target market. For instance, your target audience might include homeowners seeking high-quality and durable carpentry solutions, businesses requiring commercial fit-outs or customised interiors, or clients looking for unique offerings such as sustainable materials, intricate designs, or tailored furniture pieces.
Clearly define your carpentry business niche by showcasing your expertise in creating tailored, high-quality projects like custom outdoor seating for a targeted audience seeking unique and durable solutions | Source: Nail’it Carpentry & Construction
Analyse your market and define your customer base
Once you have completed writing your company profile and carpentry business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends.
From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.
Outline your carpentry services and pricing strategy
Your business plan should also specify the types of carpentry services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.
Detail your marketing and sales plan
For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels—such as social media, SEO, or partnerships—and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.
Create a budget and forecast cash flow
The budget and forecast cash flow is a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue.
Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance.
Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.
Establish an operations plan
The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.
Develop a risk mitigation strategy
After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify key risks when starting a carpentry business, such as injuries from using power tools or handling heavy materials, falls from working at heights during construction, and accidental damage to property during installations or repairs. Outline safety protocols and detail the types of business insurance coverage needed, like public liability insurance or workers’ compensation insurance.
Conclude with a long-term growth plan
Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define both short-term and long-term objectives of your business, such as adding new carpentry services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts.
Step 6: Register your carpentry business
To start a carpentry business, you may need to obtain registrations, carpentry licenses, and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations.
Building a reliable team for your carpentry business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire carpenters near you and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.
Hiring skilled carpenters is a crucial step in building a reliable team for your business. A collaborative workforce ensures project success and helps your business grow efficiently | Source: B2B Home Maintenance
Write job description
First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as constructing custom furniture, installing cabinetry, or building outdoor structures like decks or pergolas) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.
Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.
Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job
After crafting the job ad, post it on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right carpenters for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:
SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.
You might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram if you have a business page. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area.
Don’t overlook employee referrals, either—current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.
Screen and interview thoughtfully
As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, carpentry skills, and alignment with your business.
This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they managed challenging carpentry projects in the past, dealt with challenges such as warped timber or complex design requirements, or met tight deadlines while delivering high-quality craftsmanship and ensuring customer satisfaction.
It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your carpenters will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality.
Make an offer and onboard your new hire
When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations.
Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to introduce them to your carpentry business’s standards, client communication protocols, and the specific workflows or tools they’ll use to ensure efficient and high-quality carpentry services.
If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.
Offer ongoing support and fair treatment
A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff.
Step 8: Invest in the right carpentry tools and equipment
Having the right tools and equipment will allow you and your team to deliver high-quality carpentry work. Investing in reliable, industry-grade equipment will also keep your carpenters safe while on the job, and help you meet client expectations.
Each carpentry business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of key items, their estimated costs, and where to purchase them in Australia:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.
Step 9: Find clients for your carpentry business
Attracting clients is key to getting your carpentry business off the ground and generating a steady income. By combining online strategies with local networking and referrals, you can build awareness, secure new carpentry job leads, and establish your business as a trusted name in the community.
Expand your online presence
It goes without saying that nowadays, having an online presence is crucial for reaching potential clients and showcasing your work. From building a professional website to promoting your services on lead generation platforms and social media, expanding your online presence will help clients find and trust your business.
Build your carpentry business website
A website is essential for establishing your carpentry business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.
To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful carpentry business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience.
Arentz Trade Services’ website
Arentz Trade Services’ website is highly effective in attracting clients through its visually impressive project gallery, which showcases high-quality images of completed works like decking, landscaping, and timber structures. This feature immediately highlights their craftsmanship and the value they deliver, helping build trust with potential clients.
The site’s clean design, easy navigation, and prominent contact details ensure a seamless user experience, encouraging visitors to inquire and take the next step.
A well-designed website like Arentz Trade Services’ is instrumental in attracting clients by showcasing high-quality projects | Source: Arentz Trade Services
Blade Carpentry’s website
The Blade Carpentry website effectively attracts clients with its clear service breakdown and focus on outdoor carpentry solutions, such as decks, pergolas, and verandahs. The clean, professional layout highlights their expertise in renovations and new builds, helping visitors quickly find the services they need.
Combined with easy-to-access contact details and visuals that showcase their craftsmanship, the site establishes credibility and encourages potential clients to reach out.
Blade Carpentry’s website showcases their outdoor carpentry expertise with a professional layout and clear service breakdown, helping build trust and attract clients | Source: Blade Carpentry
Veenhoven Constructions’ website
The Veenhoven Constructions website effectively attracts clients with its clear focus on decking, patios, and general carpentry services, supported by over 15 years of experience. The site’s clean design highlights their expertise, with well-organised service categories, professional imagery showcasing completed projects, and a user-friendly layout.
Key features like a free quote option, visible contact details, and an emphasis on local areas served (Redland Bay, Victoria Point, and Brisbane) make it easy for potential clients to connect. This combination of credibility, transparency, and high-quality visuals establishes trust and encourages inquiries.
Veenhoven Constructions’ website highlights their over 15 years of expertise with well-organised service categories, a user-friendly layout, and professional visuals to establish trust and attract inquiries | Source: Veenhoven Constructions
Post on lead generation platforms
Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for carpentry businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for carpentry services, providing an immediate source of leads.
Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your carpentry expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.
Posting on lead generation platforms like Oneflare helps carpentry businesses connect with clients searching for tailored services, providing an efficient way to attract leads and grow your business | Source: Maryous Building And Construction
Get started on Oneflare by registering your carpentry business today—connect with clients, post targeted jobs, and grow your business with ease!
SEO and paid search for visibility
SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.
Utilising SEO and paid search can significantly boost your carpentry business’s online visibility, helping attract targeted traffic and generate quality leads | Source: Google Search
Social media advertising
Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your carpentry services and client works visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.
The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a carpentry business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Wild Crew Carpentry – Facebook advertising
Wild Crew Carpentry’s Facebook page effectively attracts clients through high-quality project images that showcase their carpentry skills, such as custom furniture, outdoor structures, and renovations. Their Facebook page shows ongoing projects, helping build trust with potential customers. They have also strategically added their contact details and website link, making it easy for users to enquire or request quotes.
Wild Crew Carpentry leverages Facebook advertising to showcase their carpentry projects and services, connecting effectively with potential clients while highlighting their craftsmanship and professionalism | Source: Wild Crew Carpentry
Berbuilt Constructions – Instagram advertising
BerBuilt Constructions uses their Instagram page to feature high-quality images of their completed projects, including decking, cladding, kitchen renovations, and outdoor carpentry. The clean layout and well-organised story highlights allow visitors to quickly view their expertise and range of services.
The page’s visuals highlight professional craftsmanship, while contact details and location information in the bio make it easy for clients to connect. This combination of detailed project imagery, clear service categories, and direct communication options makes the page highly effective in building trust and generating leads.
BerBuilt Constructions effectively uses Instagram to showcase their carpentry expertise, featuring project categories like decking and kitchen renovations | Source: Berbuilt Constructions
Sydney Carpentry Group – TikTok advertising
Sydney Carpentry Group’s TikTok strategy combines cinematic visuals with powerful music and engaging on-site content to showcase their carpentry work. Their use of drone footage highlights the scale and quality of their work, making it easy for viewers to envision similar carpentry jobs for their homes or businesses.
Additionally, their videos featuring carpenters working on projects add a relatable and behind-the-scenes element. By showing their work in action, they show their expertise, hard work, and attention to detail, which helps build trust with potential clients.
Sydney Carpentry Group effectively uses TikTok to showcase their carpentry expertise with engaging visuals, including drone footage and on-site work | Source: Sydney Carpentry Group
Build your carpentry business’s reputation through reviews and referrals
A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new carpentry clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.
Building a strong reputation is essential for long-term success in the carpentry industry. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new customers | Source: Absolute Building & Renovations
Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently
Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win carpentry jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates.
Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:
Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
ZohoBookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.
These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks.
Step 10: Get paid for your carpentry services!
Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to finally get paid for your carpentry services. Here’s how:
Simplify payments for your carpentry services by offering secure and convenient online payment options for your clients | Source: iStock
Choose a reliable accounting software
Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.
Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:
Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms.
Many accounting platforms offer customisable carpentry services invoice templates, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free carpentry invoice templates as a guide:
It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.
Canva’s invoice templates allow businesses to create personalised and visually appealing carpentry invoices | Source: Canva
It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for different businesses, like carpentry businesses. The good thing about these templates is that they’re compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.
Conta’s specialised invoice templates are designed to simplify billing for carpentry services | Source: Conta
It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.
Microsoft provides a variety of invoice templates to help carpentry businesses manage billing with professional designs and customisations | Source: Microsoft
The template offers a clean and organized layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.
Zoho’s service invoice templates offer customisable solutions for carpentry businesses to streamline billing processes and track payments efficiently | Source: Zoho
Set up a bank account for business payments
Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.
Offer digital payment options
Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking carpentry services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.
Establish clear payment terms
Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.
Build your future — start growing your carpentry business today!
Starting a carpentry business in Australia can be a rewarding journey when you take the right steps. From identifying your niche and setting competitive rates to showcasing your work and attracting clients, success comes down to planning and connecting with the right opportunities.
Take the next step by registering your business on Oneflare. Join a platform where homeowners and businesses actively search for skilled carpenters like you. Sign up today, showcase your services, and start growing your carpentry business with confidence!
FAQs on how to start a carpentry business
How do you deal with wood waste?
Dealing with wood waste effectively is important for both cost management and sustainability. You can repurpose offcuts for smaller projects like furniture or joinery work, recycle clean wood waste for mulch or compost, or donate usable scraps to local community projects or schools.
For larger waste, partnering with recycling facilities and waste management solutions inlike Cleanaway and Veolia, ensures responsible disposal while reducing environmental impact.
What is the difference between a subcontractor and a full-time employee?
A subcontractor is an independent worker hired to complete specific tasks or projects, often bringing their own tools and managing their own schedule. They’re not entitled to employee benefits like sick leave, superannuation, or holiday pay.
In contrast, a full-time employee works directly for your business under an employment contract, typically receiving a fixed wage, benefits, and a regular schedule. Choosing between the two depends on your workload, budget, and business structure.
How much does it cost to start a carpentry business?
The cost to start a carpentry business can range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the tools, equipment, and services you plan to offer. Basic costs include purchasing essential tools (e.g., saws, drills, and sanders), safety gear, and materials, as well as setting up insurance, marketing, and a vehicle for transport. Starting small and investing gradually as you take on more projects can help manage costs effectively.
Starting a flooring business in Australia can be a great way to build a steady income, but it’s not without its challenges, especially when working with limited resources. If you’re starting a flooring company from the ground up, you’ll need practical strategies to attract clients and manage your business effectively.
This guide will help you get started on how to start a flooring business, from identifying your market and deciding on your rates, to securing your first clients. With the right approach, you can build a solid reputation and achieve long-term success in the flooring industry.
Step 1: Identify the market of your flooring business
Identifying your market is the first step to ensuring your flooring business meets the needs of your local community. By understanding which flooring services are in demand, you can tailor your offerings to attract the right clients and stand out from the competition.
Explore different types of flooring services
Here, we’ll explore the various types of flooring services you can offer, so you can identify which ones align with your skills and the needs of your community.
Floor installation services
Floor installation is the most common service for new builds or renovations. You can specialise in installing a variety of flooring types, including hardwood, laminate, floating timber floors, vinyl, or tiles, catering to residential and small commercial projects.
Professional floor installation services can transform any space, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal | Source: Stokes, Mark
Floor refinishing services
Floor refinishing services restore the beauty of worn-out floors by sanding, polishing, and sealing surfaces to make them look new. This service is especially in demand for hardwood floors that show signs of wear and tear.
Floor restoration services
Floor restoration involves repairing and restoring damaged floors, including repairing cracks or replacing damaged tiles. This service appeals to homeowners who want to maintain the integrity of their floors without having to replace them entirely.
Tile and grout cleaning
Professional tiling and grout cleaning are essential for maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of tiled floors. Offering this service can be a great way to attract clients looking for routine maintenance or restoring the appearance of older tile floors.
Floor sanding services
Floor sanding is a type of service used to remove old finishes and smooth out imperfections on wooden floors. This service is particularly beneficial for older homes with hardwood floors that need a bit of floor restoration and refresh work to look vibrant again.
Professional floor sanding brings out the natural beauty of wood, adding shine and durability to your space | Source: Mr Timber Floor Sanding
Epoxy flooring services
Epoxy flooring provides a durable, long-lasting finish, ideal for garage floor coating, warehouse floor upgrades, and other floor renovations for high-traffic areas. This service requires specialised skills but can be highly profitable, particularly in commercial settings.
Floor levelling services
Floor levelling corrects uneven floors before installing new flooring. It’s an important service for clients who want to ensure their floors are properly prepared to avoid future problems.
Carpet removal and replacement
Carpet removal and replacement is a practical service for homeowners looking to upgrade their floors or switch to a different type of flooring. You can offer this service as part of a full home makeover or as an independent job.
Floor waterproofing and sealing
Floor waterproofing and sealing floors are crucial for areas prone to moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, or kitchens. Offering this service adds value by helping homeowners protect their investments from water damage.
Custom floor design and inlays
Custom floor design and inlays involve creating unique floor patterns or adding decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic of a space. This service appeals to clients looking for a more personalised or high-end flooring option.
Choose your flooring business niche
Once you’ve identified the types of flooring services you want to offer, the next step is to narrow down your focus to a specific niche. By specialising, you can build expertise, attract the right clients, and differentiate your business from competitors. Consider the following flooring business niches:
Floor refinishing and restoration niche
The floor refinishing and restoration niche focuses on the restoration and reinforcement of older buildings by sanding, polishing, and repairing their floors. The services under this niche are commonly used for hardwood floors, tile, and stone surfaces to improve their quality and durability, keeping them in excellent condition.
Pros: High demand for budget-friendly flooring solutions.
Cons: This can require more time and effort than new installations and may require specialised tools and training.
Luxury and custom flooring niche
The luxury and custom flooring niche focuses on high-end, bespoke installations, such as intricate designs, premium materials, and unique flooring solutions. This niche appeals to clients who want something distinctive for their homes or businesses.
Pros: Higher profit margins and the opportunity to build a strong brand.
Cons: Smaller client base as it targets higher-end markets, and requires premium materials and advanced skills.
Explore the luxury and custom flooring niche to cater to high-end clients seeking sophistication and style | Source: River City Constructions
Commercial and industrial flooring niche
The commercial and industrial flooring niche caters to businesses, warehouses, and factories that need durable, long-lasting flooring solutions. Services can include epoxy coatings, tile installations, and large-scale carpeting.
Pros: Steady demand from commercial properties and larger projects.
Cons: Larger projects often require higher upfront investment in equipment and materials, and longer working hours.
Tile and grout cleaning and maintenance niche
Tile and grout cleaning services involve restoring the appearance of tiled surfaces and removing dirt, stains, and build-up. The services under this niche are often sought after in both residential and commercial settings, where cleanliness and maintenance are priorities.
Pros: Consistent demand for maintenance services and lower start-up costs.
Cons: Can be physically demanding and may require specialised cleaning equipment.
Eco-friendly flooring niche
The eco-friendly flooring niche focuses on sustainable, environmentally conscious flooring options such as bamboo, cork flooring, and reclaimed wood. With growing awareness of environmental issues, this niche appeals to clients seeking green building solutions.
Pros: Appeal to eco-conscious consumers and increasing demand for sustainable options.
Cons: Limited range of materials, and some eco-friendly options can be more expensive than traditional flooring types.
Decide on the service area for your flooring business
Determining where to establish or expand your flooring business is crucial for its success. By identifying regions with the highest demand for flooring services, you can position yourself in areas where your business is more likely to thrive.
The table below highlights the demand for flooring services across various cities in Australia, based on Oneflare’s job posting data from 2024. We’ll break down the demand in each city and explore the factors driving the need for professional flooring in these areas.
Australian cities with the highest flooring job demand
Sydney leads the market with 23.2% of the total job demand for flooring services in Australia. This high demand is primarily driven by its significant population, large-scale residential developments, and consistent growth in the commercial property market. With ongoing renovations and new builds in one of Australia’s busiest urban centres, the demand for flooring specialists remains high.
Melbourne follows closely with a 22.3% share of the total job demand. As a rapidly growing metropolitan area, Melbourne’s demand for flooring services is driven by urban expansion, renovations in older suburbs, and a thriving housing market. Its vibrant property scene ensures sustained demand for both residential and commercial flooring solutions.
Brisbane accounts for 15.1% of the demand, making it a strong contender. The city’s growing appeal to families and businesses, coupled with increased construction activity, has elevated the demand for quality flooring. Its relative affordability compared to Sydney and Melbourne also supports consistent activity in the housing market, influencing flooring services.
Australian cities with lower flooring job demand
Perth, with a 14.5% share, represents a mid-tier market for flooring services. While demand is not as high as Sydney or Melbourne, Perth’s steady population growth and increased focus on urban redevelopment projects make it a viable market. Flooring businesses can focus on niche areas such as sustainable flooring or luxury vinyl to differentiate themselves.
The Gold Coast holds a smaller share of 3.6%, reflecting its role as a more lifestyle-oriented city. Though overall demand is lower, businesses can tap into niche opportunities in luxury and holiday home flooring, as well as renovations driven by a strong tourism market. The smaller market also reduces competition, allowing businesses to build loyal customer bases.
Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the flooring industry
Understanding seasonal trends in the flooring industry is essential for managing fluctuations in demand and optimising operations. Certain times of the year may see an increase in client requests, such as spring and summer, when homeowners prioritise renovations and flooring upgrades. Other periods may experience a slowdown.
By aligning your services with seasonal needs—such as promoting floor refinishing services in winter or advertising outdoor flooring solutions like decking installations in spring—you can maintain steady revenue and ensure the long-term stability of your flooring business, regardless of demand fluctuations.
Plan for seasonal trends in the flooring industry to align your services with customer demands | Source: Natro Flooring
Identify popular seasons for flooring services
According to Oneflare’s 2024 data on the total job postings for each type of service, the top three peak months for the flooring business in Australia are March, April, and October. These months exhibit the highest demand across various flooring services.
The increased demand in March and April is closely linked to the end of summer and the start of cooler months, a period when homeowners often undertake renovation projects, including flooring upgrades, before winter sets in. October marks the beginning of the warmer spring season, prompting property owners to complete home improvement projects, often driven by the anticipation of holiday gatherings or real estate sales.
Peak season for flooring installation
Flooring installation shows the highest demand in January, March, and April. In January, property owners take advantage of the summer holiday season to complete renovations. March and April follow as ideal times to install flooring due to favourable weather conditions.
Peak season for tiling installation
The peak months for tiling installation are March, April, and May. During these months, the demand is driven by property renovations, with homeowners and commercial establishments focusing on upgrading kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, especially ahead of winter in May.
Peak season for grout cleaning
Grout cleaning has peak demand in March, May, and December. March and May align with seasonal cleaning and renovation cycles, while December represents a last-minute push before year-end celebrations to ensure spaces are clean and well-maintained.
Peak season for flooring repair
Flooring repair peaks in January, April, and September. January reflects the post-holiday period when homeowners address wear and tear. April is popular for general renovations before winter, while September sees a surge as property owners prepare their homes for the spring season and upcoming holiday activities.
Peak season for carpet cleaning
Carpet cleaning experiences its highest demand in March, May, and November. March and May coincide with seasonal cleaning routines, especially before and after the cooler months. November aligns with preparations for the festive season, as homeowners and businesses focus on maintaining clean and presentable spaces for holiday gatherings.
Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations
Seasonal changes can greatly impact the demand for flooring services, with peak times during home renovation seasons or before major holidays. Planning ahead for these fluctuations can help ensure that your flooring business remains steady throughout the year, maintaining a reliable income stream even during quieter months.
Offer seasonal promotions and discounts for certain flooring services
Seasonal promotions can be a great way to attract clients during off-peak times. For example, you can offer discounts on floor refinishing services during the colder months when people are spending more time indoors or provide package deals for new floor installations in the spring. Seasonal offers encourage clients to book services during slower periods and keep your business active year-round.
Diversify your flooring service offerings
Expanding your service offerings can help keep your business going throughout the year. If you experience a drop in new flooring installations during the off-season, consider offering related services like floor cleaning, sanding, or restoration. By diversifying your flooring services, you can appeal to different client needs and avoid relying too heavily on one service.
Build relationships with builders, interior designers, or renovation contractors
Collaborating with builders, interior designers, and renovation contractors can help smooth out seasonal fluctuations. These professionals are often working on projects throughout the year and can refer you for flooring installations or other services. Building these partnerships ensures that you have a steady stream of business, even in slower months.
Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring clients needing regular flooring services
Using lead generation platforms like Oneflare can help you secure consistent work throughout the year. By regularly updating your profile and responding to service requests, you can attract clients who need recurring services like floor maintenance or repair. These platforms keep your business visible and help fill your schedule, even during off-peak seasons.
Post your flooring business on lead generation sites like Oneflare to attract recurring clients who require regular services | Source: Oneflare
Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the flooring industry
Understanding the market rates and analysing your competitors is key to pricing your services competitively while ensuring you remain profitable. By researching how much most floor installers charge for their businesses, you can better position yourself in the market and make informed decisions about your pricing strategies.
Understand the cost of common flooring services
There are many factors that affect the cost of flooring services. There are the type of flooring, the complexity of the project, and the region in which you operate. The cost also depends on whether you’re offering basic installation or more specialised services like sanding or epoxy coatings.
To give you a better idea, here’s an overview of how much most flooring services cost in Australia:
Do take note that these figures are simply estimates, and prices may vary based on location, the scale of the job, and the materials used. By understanding these ranges, you can assess how your pricing compares to the local market and adjust accordingly.
Decide how to charge for flooring services
Choosing the right pricing structure depends on the type of work you’re doing. Consider the following methods to determine how you charge for flooring services:
Per square metre for larger flooring projects
For larger projects, such as installing new floors in a house or commercial space, charging per square metre is a standard approach. This method provides clarity for clients and allows you to scale your pricing based on the size of the project, ensuring that larger jobs are adequately priced. It also makes it easier to estimate costs upfront, helping clients make informed decisions.
Flat rates for smaller and specific flooring jobs
For smaller tasks like repairs or installations of specific flooring types (e.g., carpets or tiles), offering a flat rate can make it easier for clients to understand the total cost upfront. It also simplifies invoicing for straightforward projects, ensuring no hidden costs or surprises for the client. Flat rates are particularly useful for repeat customers, as they can quickly compare prices for similar jobs.
Hourly rate for intricate and unpredictable flooring services
For services that require more detailed work, such as floor sanding or restoration, an hourly rate may be appropriate. This method is ideal for projects where the scope of work is harder to estimate in advance, allowing you to be compensated fairly for your time and expertise.
Hourly rates can be beneficial for jobs that may have unexpected challenges or require a level of skill that’s hard to predict.
Project-based pricing for flooring projects with multiple phases
For larger or more complex projects that involve several stages, such as demolition, preparation, floor installation, and finishing, project-based pricing can be effective. This method ensures that all aspects of the project are covered and helps clients understand the overall cost structure.
It also provides the opportunity to build in contingencies for unexpected costs, ensuring your flooring business is protected throughout the project.
Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)
To stand out in a competitive flooring market, it’s essential to identify and promote your unique selling points (USPs). These are the key features or services that differentiate your business from others, helping you attract the right clients. Here are some ideas to consider:
Eco-friendly flooring solutions
Eco-friendly flooring options, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood, are becoming increasingly popular as consumers seek sustainable choices. Offering eco-friendly options can attract environmentally conscious clients and differentiate your business from competitors.
Additionally, it positions your business as one that aligns with current trends and consumer values, enhancing your brand’s reputation.
Customised flooring designs and finishes
Offering customised floor designs or specialised finishes, like hand-stained hardwood floors or intricate tile patterns, can appeal to clients looking for a unique touch. This helps position your business as a premium provider of bespoke services, allowing you to target a higher-end market. Clients seeking one-of-a-kind solutions will appreciate your attention to detail and craftsmanship.
End-to-end flooring service
Providing an all-inclusive service, from initial consultation to project completion, can be a strong USP. This convenience saves clients time and hassle, as they only need to work with one company for the entire flooring project. It also ensures that the client receives consistent service and quality across all stages of the project, making their experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Fast turnaround times and flexible scheduling
Promoting quick response times and flexible scheduling can be a key selling point, especially for clients who need urgent flooring services. This level of flexibility can set you apart from competitors with longer lead times, making your business the go-to choice for clients in a rush. Additionally, it allows you to work with a wider range of clients, including those with tight deadlines or last-minute requests.
Promoting these USPs on platforms like Oneflare can help your flooring business stand out and attract clients seeking tailored services that competitors may not offer | Source: AS Concrete
Step 4: Explore funding options for your flooring business
Securing funding for your flooring business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals.
Exploring funding options is a key step in starting your flooring business, ensuring you have the resources to launch and grow successfully | Source: iStock
Self-funding
Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.
Small business loans
Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.
Secured and unsecured business loans
Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial flooring business supplies, equipment, and transportation assets.
Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your flooring business, like vehicles, flooring tools, and equipment.
Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher.
Government and industry programs
Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.
The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.
Equity Investment
Startup flooring businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment. It’s a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to get a stake in the company.
There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.
Step 5: Develop a strategic flooring business plan
Starting a flooring business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business.
Developing a strategic flooring business plan is essential for setting clear goals, outlining growth strategies, and achieving long-term success | Source: iStock
It should include key elements, such as:
Executive summary
Company profile
Business description
Market analysis
Services offered and pricing strategy
Marketing strategies
Budget and cash flow forecast
Operations plan
Risk mitigation strategy
Long-term growth plan
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your flooring business.
Draft an executive summary
First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your flooring business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.
Write your flooring business description
Your flooring business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your flooring business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location.
Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.
Describe your flooring business niche and types of services
The next step is to define the focus of your flooring business, whether it’s general flooring installations, refinishing and restoration, tile and grout cleaning, or a specialised niche such as eco-friendly flooring solutions or custom design and inlays.
Clarify why you chose this niche and provide a brief description of your target market. For example, your target audience could include homeowners needing durable and stylish flooring installations, businesses seeking large-scale commercial flooring solutions, or clients looking for specialised offerings like sustainable materials, bespoke designs, or fast-response repair services.
Detailing your flooring business niche and service offerings—like tiling, hardwood flooring, or specialty designs—is a crucial step in creating a comprehensive and effective business plan | Source: BNG Tiling Services
Analyse your market and define your customer base
Once you have completed writing your company profile and flooring business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends.
From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.
Outline your flooring services and pricing strategy
Your business plan should also specify the types of flooring services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.
Detail your marketing and sales plan
For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels—such as social media, SEO, or partnerships—and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.
Create a budget and forecast cash flow
The budget and forecast cash flow is a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue.
Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance.
Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.
Establish an operations plan
The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.
Develop a risk mitigation strategy
After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify key risks when starting a flooring business, such as injuries from handling heavy materials or equipment, slips and falls during installations, and accidental damage to property during floor removal or refinishing. Outline safety protocols and detail the types of business insurance coverage needed, like public liability insurance or workers’ compensation insurance.
Conclude with a long-term growth plan
Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define both short-term and long-term objectives of your business, such as adding new flooring services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts.
Step 6: Register your flooring business
To start a flooring business, you may need to obtain registrations, flooring business licenses, and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations.
Step 7: Hire your flooring experts and specialists
Building a reliable team for your flooring business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire flooring experts and specialists and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.
Hiring skilled flooring experts is essential to ensuring the quality and success of your flooring business | Source: No Mess Property Maintenance Services
Write job description
First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as installing new flooring, refinishing or restoring existing floors, or repairing damaged floorboards) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.
Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.
Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job
After crafting the job ad, post it on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right flooring experts and specialists for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:
SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.
You might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram if you have a business page. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area.
Don’t overlook employee referrals, either—current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.
Screen and interview thoughtfully
As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, flooring skills, and alignment with your business.
This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they managed challenging flooring projects in the past, dealt with unexpected complications such as uneven subfloors or intricate designs, or met tight deadlines while delivering high-quality flooring results and ensuring customer satisfaction.
It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your flooring specialists will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality.
Make an offer and onboard your new hire
When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations.
Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to introduce them to your flooring business’s standards, client communication protocols, and the specific workflows or tools they’ll use to ensure efficient and high-quality flooring services.
If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.
Offer ongoing support and fair treatment
A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff.
Step 8: Invest in the right flooring tools and equipment
To deliver high-quality flooring services, investing in the right tools and equipment is crucial. By being equipped with the right gear, you will stand out as a flooring business that’s efficient, precise, and professional.
Each flooring business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of key items, their estimated costs, and where to purchase them in Australia:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.
Step 9: Find clients for your flooring business
By now, you likely have a clear understanding of your market and have set your pricing structure. The next step is to secure your first clients. Whether it’s through your website, social media, or word-of-mouth referrals, there are many ways to get your business in front of the right people.
Expand your online presence
A strong online presence is vital for finding flooring leads and establishing your business as trustworthy. Clients are more likely to search online for flooring services before making a decision, so it’s essential to ensure your business is easy to find and offers clear information on your services.
Build your flooring business website
A website is essential for establishing your flooring business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.
To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful flooring business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience.
The Flooring Guys
The Flooring Guys’ website features a clean and professional design that effectively highlights their expertise in hybrid flooring and related services. Right from the homepage, they emphasise their specialisation, showcasing high-quality images of their flooring products alongside clear pricing details.
The navigation is straightforward, making it easy for visitors to explore their product offerings or learn more about their services. The inclusion of customer testimonials, such as their “150+ 5-star reviews” on Trustpilot, adds credibility and reassures visitors of the company’s reliability and service quality.
Having an intuitive and visually appealing site like The Flooring Guys helps attract customers, promote your expertise, and drive business growth in the competitive flooring industry | Source: The Flooring Guys
MTE Floors
MTE Floors’ website features a clean and professional design that effectively highlights their expertise in wooden flooring solutions. They showcase their specialisation by presenting high-quality images of various flooring options, including laminate, hybrid, engineered, and solid timber flooring.
The website has clear menus, directing visitors to detailed service pages, a gallery of past projects, and informative blog posts. Contact information, including phone numbers and an email address, is prominently displayed at the top of the page, and a dedicated ‘Contact Us’ section provides an easy-to-use form for inquiries.
MTE Floors’ website demonstrates the importance of a sleek, user-friendly platform for flooring businesses | Source: MTE Floors
Top Choice Flooring Installation
Top Choice Flooring Installation’s website features a user-friendly design that immediately highlights their expertise in handling different flooring materials, such as vinyl, laminate, and hybrid options.
What sets this site apart is the detailed descriptions accompanying each flooring type, helping potential clients make informed decisions. The website also emphasises its additional services, such as subfloor preparation and dust-free grinding, positioning them as a comprehensive solution for flooring needs.
Adding a clear call-to-action, professional visuals, and concise messaging to your website makes it easy for potential clients to engage and request services | Source: Top Choice Flooring Installation
Post on lead generation platforms
Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for flooring businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for flooring services, providing an immediate source of leads.
Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your flooring expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.
Posting on lead-generation platforms like Oneflare is one of the most effective ways for flooring businesses to attract and secure new clients | Source: Triple Tree Timber Flooring
Get started on Oneflare by registering your flooring business today—connect with clients, post targeted jobs, and grow your business with ease!
SEO and paid search for visibility
SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.
Investing in SEO and paid search campaigns helps increase your flooring business’s online visibility | Source: Google Search
Social media advertising
Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your flooring services and client works visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.
The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a flooring business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Tommy Hawkins Flooring – Facebook advertising
Tommy Hawkins Flooring’s Facebook page uses a straightforward marketing approach by regularly posting photos and videos of their completed flooring projects. Each post is accompanied by concise captions detailing the materials used and the location of the project, effectively showcasing their expertise.
Their consistent posting schedule featuring a variety of flooring types, including vinyl planks, hybrid flooring, and carpet tiles, proves their versatility in the field and appeals to a broad range of potential clients.
Leverage Facebook to showcase your flooring business’s completed projects and connect with local customers | Source: Tommy Hawkins Flooring
MLB Flooring – Instagram advertising
MLB Flooring’s Instagram account is filled with high-quality photos and videos, highlighting their completed projects, such as hybrid flooring, vinyl planks, and custom designs. They also take advantage of Instagram’s story highlights to feature ongoing projects, which help build trust and provide added value to their followers.
The account keeps its content simple and focused, relying on polished visuals and occasional reels showcasing their work. This approach, combined with consistent posting and authentic engagement with followers, makes the page appealing to potential clients looking for reliable flooring services.
Use Instagram advertising to showcase your flooring business’s expertise through high-quality visuals and detailed project highlights | Source: Mlb Flooring
LV.TimberFlooring – TikTok advertising
LV.TimberFlooring’s TikTok account uses an engaging content strategy that combines project showcases with trending audio and effects. Their videos often feature time-lapse transformations of flooring installations, behind-the-scenes clips, and close-ups of their high-quality timber finishes.
Their content is visually appealing and highlights the craftsmanship of their work. Plus, incorporating TikTok trends, such as popular music and creative transitions, makes their content more shareable and engaging. This strategy allows them to reach a wider audience and stand out in the competitive flooring market, proving the effectiveness of TikTok in showcasing their expertise to potential clients.
Maximise your flooring business’s reach with TikTok advertising | Source: LV.TimberFlooring
Build your flooring business’s reputation through reviews and referrals
A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new flooring clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.
Positive reviews help attract new clients and establish your reputation for quality workmanship | Source: Milestone Flooring
Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently
Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win flooring jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates.
Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:
Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
Zoho Bookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.
These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks.
Step 10: Get paid for your flooring services!
Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to finally get paid for your flooring services. Here’s how:
Simplify payments for your flooring services by offering secure and convenient online payment options for your clients | Source: iStock
Choose a reliable accounting software
Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.
Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:
Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms.
Many accounting platforms offer customisable flooring services invoice templates, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free flooring invoice templates as a guide:
It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.
Canva’s invoice templates allow businesses to create personalised and visually appealing flooring invoices | Source: Canva
It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for different businesses, like flooring businesses. The good thing about these templates is that they’re compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.
Conta’s specialised invoice templates are designed to simplify billing for flooring services | Source: Conta
It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.
Microsoft provides a variety of invoice templates to help flooring businesses manage billing with professional designs and customisations | Source: Microsoft
The template offers a clean and organized layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.
Zoho’s service invoice templates offer customisable solutions for flooring businesses to streamline billing processes and track payments efficiently | Source: Zoho
Set up a bank account for business payments
Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.
Offer digital payment options
Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking flooring services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.
Establish clear payment terms
Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.
Build the foundation of your dream—start your flooring business today!
Becoming a trusted flooring professional gives you the chance to help clients transform their spaces, whether it’s enhancing a family’s home with stylish, durable flooring or upgrading an office space with modern, functional designs. In this guide, we’ve outlined everything you need to start and succeed in the flooring industry, and how you can find and secure your first flooring business clients.
If you’re ready to grow your flooring business, register your business on Oneflare and connect with homeowners and businesses actively seeking reliable flooring professionals. By creating a profile, you can showcase your expertise, attract new clients, and establish lasting relationships in your community.
Don’t wait to take your business to the next level—join Oneflare today!
FAQs on how to start a flooring business
How can I manage cash flow effectively during slow seasons?
Managing cash flow during slow seasons requires strategic planning. Build a financial buffer by saving a portion of your earnings during busier months. Offer seasonal promotions or discounts to attract clients during quieter periods. Additionally, diversify your services, such as providing maintenance or repair work, to maintain a steady income stream year-round.
What’s the best way to build partnerships with interior designers or builders?
Start by networking at local events or trade shows where industry professionals gather. Reach out to interior designers and builders with a professional pitch, showcasing your portfolio and how your services complement theirs.
You might also want to consider offering referral incentives or collaborating on joint projects to establish mutually beneficial partnerships. Maintaining good communication and consistently delivering high-quality work will help strengthen these relationships over time.
How much does it cost to start a flooring business?
The cost of starting a flooring business can vary, but typically ranges between $5,000 and $50,000, depending on the scale. Initial expenses may include purchasing tools and equipment, such as saws and sanders, a reliable vehicle for transporting materials, marketing costs, and any required licenses or insurance. Starting small with essential tools and gradually expanding can help manage initial costs effectively.
