Do you have unused space in your salon? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you turn that space into income by renting it out to independent beauty professionals.
PHASE 1: STRATEGY & PLANNING
1. Assess Your Space
Walk through your salon with fresh eyes. Look for:
- Unused treatment rooms
- Oversized backroom, kitchen, or staff areas
- Storage areas that can be minimized or relocated
- Unused shampoo or wash stations
Ask yourself:
- Can I create rooms using partitions, curtains, or temporary walls?
- Is the ceiling height suitable for services like tattooing or massage beds?
- Is the space accessible (e.g., stairs, disabled access)?
Minimum recommended size per suite: 2.5m x 2.5m
2. Choose Your Ideal Tenants
Choose professionals who complement (not compete with) your salon. Here’s a quick overview:
| Profession |
Requirements |
Notes |
| Lash Technician |
Small space, bright lighting |
Low setup needs |
| Brow Stylist |
Counter, mirror, good lighting |
High demand |
| Cosmetic Tattooist |
Sterile room, sink, privacy |
High income potential |
| Nail Technician |
Desk, ventilation, polish display |
Popular add-on service |
| Facialist |
Quiet room, water access, facial bed |
Creates a holistic vibe |
| Makeup Artist |
Mirror, lighting, shared space okay |
Great for weekend rentals |
| Cosmetic Injector |
Clinical setting, lockable room |
Premium, high-return use |
Tip: Prioritize tenants that bring foot traffic and opportunities for cross-referral.
3. Check the Market
Research local competitors:
- Facebook Groups (e.g. Hair & Beauty Buy/Sell/Rent)
- Marketplace & Gumtree
- Local salon suite providers
- Real estate agencies
Ask:
- What do they charge?
- Do they include utilities?
- Are rooms furnished or shared?
PHASE 2: PREPARATION & FIT-OUT
4. Design the Space
Choose a layout based on your budget:
- Private rooms: Drywall, doors, signage
- Semi-private booths: Curtains, dividers, frosted panels
- Shared space: Rent by day for flexible services (makeup, brows)
Essentials:
- Power outlets
- Bright, white lighting
- Air conditioning or ventilation
- Mirrors, shelving, seating
- Easy-to-clean flooring
- Sound separation or music control
Optional extras:
- Sink access
- Towel service
- Storage cabinets
- Reception chairs or waiting area
Style tip: Keep the design neutral, modern, and elegant to appeal to a wide range of tenants.
5. Legal & Compliance
- Contact your local council about zoning, licensing, and health/safety regulations.
- Ensure your setup meets:
- Infection control standards
- Accessibility requirements
- Fire exits and occupancy codes
Require tenants to have:
- Their own ABN (Australian Business Number)
- Professional liability insurance
6. Create a Rental Agreement
A strong contract protects both you and your tenants. Include:
- Rental term (e.g., weekly, monthly, 3-month blocks)
- Rental fees and due dates
- Security deposit or bond
- What’s included (Wi-Fi, towels, reception use, etc.)
- Retail policy (Can they sell their own products?)
- Expectations (cleaning, damages, client behaviour)
- Exit terms (notice period to vacate)
PHASE 3: PRICING & INCOME STRATEGY
7. Set Competitive Pricing
Pricing depends on location, amenities, and demand. Here’s a rough guide:
| Room Type |
Daily Rate |
Weekly Rate |
| Small Booth |
$80–$120 |
$350–$500 |
| Private Suite |
$120–$180 |
$500–$700 |
| Premium Suite |
$180–$250 |
$700–$900 |
Charge more if you include:
- Towels & laundry
- Booking system
- Reception service
- Social media or website promotion
PHASE 4: MARKETING & LEASING
8. Attract Quality Tenants
Use a mix of online and offline channels:
- Instagram: Reels or stories showing the space
- Facebook Groups: Hair & beauty room rental groups
- Beauty platforms: e.g., Beauty Hub, Rentachair.com.au
- In person: Visit beauty schools, tattoo studios
- Classifieds: Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace
Include in your listings:
- Clear photos/videos
- Amenities included (Wi-Fi, aircon, reception, etc.)
- Ideal for: lash techs, brow artists, injectors, etc.
- Location and nearby parking
PHASE 5: ONGOING MANAGEMENT
9. Onboarding New Tenants
Once they sign on:
- Provide a welcome pack (Wi-Fi info, cleaning roster, policies)
- Hold regular check-ins
- Offer extras: towel service, online booking tools, referral system
10. Maintain Smooth Operations
- Keep shared spaces tidy and functional
- Use a shared calendar for part-time or rotating renters
- Promote your tenants on your salon’s social media
- Gradually increase rent if demand rises or upgrades are made
Bonus Income Ideas:
- Retail commission: Let tenants sell your products
- Signage rental: Offer branded space on your windows or front desk
- Mini studio hire: Allow client photo shoots or content creation
- Education space: Let tenants host classes during off-hours
Final Tip:
This is more than just a rental—it’s a business ecosystem. The better the space runs, the more everyone grows. Get creative, stay professional, and keep the energy high.
