Tips for choosing the right tradesperson Part Three

Tips for choosing the right tradesperson Part Three

In the two previous blogs some elements to be aware of were discussed including the importance of a written contract and the importance of your tradespersons having up to date and current insurance. The third and final blog helps provide the last tips to hopefully put you on the right track when selecting your next tradies for your building or renovation works.

Know your rights 

As the customer, it is our right to ensure the works completed has been carried out as per the contract and to a reasonable standard, if not then those tradies employed should be held accountable. Before you escalate matters further the first step if you are unhappy is to voice these concerns with the company you have dealt with. You are also allowed to withhold the final payment until the trade person has returned to your property to complete the works to standard however should you find difficulty in contacting them, or should you feel they are deliberately avoiding you then you have options. This includes taking it to the consumer protection agency in your state or territory.

Value professionalism

Be wary of a lack of communication or tradies that are regularly late as tradespeople are not exempt from being professional in the workplace, this includes their appearance and conduct. Be aware of any tradie who suggests he alone can complete building, electrical and plumbing works himself as it is very rare for a tradie to have all three skills, but rather choose individuals based on their skills. If your tradespeople don’t provide a clear timeframe of their arrival and completion of the building work (including each stage) these should be avoided. Turning up late on a regular basis is also not acceptable and shouldn’t be tolerated, plus you can tell a tradie by the way he presents himself. Sure, at the end of the working day he maybe covered and dirt and dust but he should present himself professionally at all times, as this is usually a sign he is professional. If in doubt go with your gut instinct, it’s very rarely wrong.

Beware of cash jobs

If your tradespeople insist on cash payments with a cheaper price tag that excludes GST, be aware that this can be a huge risk for your insurance and can cause you considerable headache should anything go wrong. It’s important to receive a tax invoice or receipt for the work completed.

Verify any reviews

Not all reviews should be read and believed as some service providers may post fake reviews to ensure potential clients read only glowing reviews. Try social media like Facebook and if someone has written a glowing review try and contact them and ask why. When searching for a tradesperson’s name online, be wary of those who appear to be behind a string of different business ventures. Ask the tradesperson for references in the area and then follow up with them yourself. Check with friends and family if they have recently renovated and ask them how was the overall experience before settling on your tradespersons, you won’t regret it.