Meet Your Local Tradie

HOW TO PICK A GOOD TRADIE IN EASY STEPS4 Whether you are in the market for a large-scale renovation or some smaller jobs around the house, selecting the right tradesperson can be a difficult and stressful experience. For every positive encounter, many people have had or know someone who has had a negative experience with a tradesperson. The good news is that there are several things you can do before you commit your job to somebody, which will ultimately help to ensure it is completed on time, on budget and to the right standard.

SHOP AROUND BEFORE YOU COMMIT

Treat choosing a tradesperson as you would treat buying a car. It’s unlikely you would ever purchase the first car you inspected, and likewise there is no obligation to give your job to the first tradesperson you call. There are several websites offering instant quotes from multiple companies, but it is always best to go directly to the tradesperson. These websites typically charge tradespeople to have their services featured and pass these costs to the customers and speaking to somebody directly will allow you to ask follow-up questions.

LISTEN TO WORD OF MOUTH

The internet age means that anybody with a smartphone has access to a myriad review. But while online review can be handy, they aren’t the be all and end all. If you have family members, friends or colleagues who have recently had work done around the house, ask them questions about the tradespeople they used. you can’t beat oldfashioned word-of-mouth. You are more likely to get an honest answer from somebody you know rather than relying on stranger’s opinions online.

CHECK ON THEIR CREDENTIALS

Each state and territory have its own laws about licensing. A quick way to ensure the tradesperson you’ve been speaking with has the right accreditation is to visit licensedtrades. com.au. Australia’s only comprehensive licensechecking site features an easyto-use database of more than 1.2 million trade professionals across the country. Another good sign is if your tradesperson is a member of their peak organisation such as the Masters Building Association or Master Plumbers. By going to these peak organisations directly, you will be able to obtain a list of credentialed professionals in your local area.

GET A DETAILED QUOTE

It is important that you get a quote with a breakdown of the total figure – how much of the cost relates to materials and relates to labour. All quotes should feature the ABN and/ or license number of the tradesperson. The best way to avoid ‘bill shock’ at the end of the job is to be up-front with your tradesperson throughout the process and ask questions in advance about how they will handle and communicate any unexpected changes to the quote or the timeframe of the job. Communication is key. A lot of the stress involved in hiring a tradesperson can be alleviated if you ask plenty of questions, get everything in writing and make sure your tradesperson knows you expect to be informed as soon as anything changes.”