Huge deposit pressure
Deposits can be normal, but pressure tactics and no written terms are not.
Tips & Advice
How to choose a good tradie in Australia
A good tradie is clear, licensed where required, insured, specific about scope and realistic about timing. A bad one makes everything urgent, vague and weirdly cash-only.
Hiring checklist
Run this before saying yes
- Get at least two itemised quotes for non-emergency work.
- Confirm ABN, business name, licence category and insurance.
- Ask who does the work: owner, employee or subcontractor.
- Clarify materials, clean-up, disposal and warranties.
- Agree how variations are priced and approved.
- Keep written records. Text messages count. Verbal fog does not.
Tradie fit score
Tick what they provide. Aim for 5+ before booking.
Red flags
Warning signs before hiring
No licence details
If the trade is regulated and they dodge licence questions, move on.
Vague scope
“All included” without line items is how disputes grow legs.
No proof of past work
Reviews, photos and references reduce risk, especially for larger jobs.
Cash-only weirdness
Legitimate businesses can issue invoices and receipts. Funny how that works.
No variation process
Renovations change. The pricing process should be agreed before surprises land.
Preparation
Make your job easier to quote
Better briefs attract better responses. Send clear photos, measurements, access notes and your preferred timing. Tradies are busy. Make the yes easy.
Photos
Include wide shots, close-ups, access points, switchboards, meters, roof areas or wet areas where relevant.
Measurements
Give rough dimensions, ceiling heights, floor area, wall lengths or quantity counts.
Constraints
Mention parking, stairs, strata rules, pets, school runs, heritage issues and working-hour limits.
Outcome
Explain what success looks like: repair, replacement, compliance certificate, finish quality or speed.