on choosing a tradesperson
Choosing a tradesperson can be a daunting task! Amber’s step-by-step guide will give you some helpful hints to consider before making your decision.
1) Clearly explain the result you wish to achieve. If possible draw, or obtain a plan of the works required.
2) Contact recommended licensed tradesman and ascertain the following:
- Availability at the time you require.
- Clearly outline the work required over the telephone – ask if they would be interested in providing you with an estimate as well as if they have done similar jobs in the past.
3) Select a few tradespeople who appear to be suitable for your job and arrange a time to meet the tradesman separately on site.
4) Show the tradeperson the work to be completed on site. If possible, produce a plan and instruction sheet. Discuss the proposed job with the tradesman including the pattern to be laid to achieve the desired result. Different laying patterns may incur different costs. Ask the tradesman to write a detailed quote for all the tasks which will be performed. Be clear of who will clean up the rubbish, replace skirting boards…etc.
5) Check if the tradespersons’ licence is current and that the job is within the scope of the work they are licensed to under take by the Department of Fair Trading. It is advisable to request references of work of a similar nature recently completed.
6) When accepting a quotation, agree on a starting date and an estimated completion date. All parties should sign the quotation.
7) If there are any variations to the initial contract, make sure that both parties agree in writing to the changes, including changes in cost and timeframe.
8) When the goods arrive on site, check the order for correct colour, size and quantity before the tradesperson arrives there. If there are any issues, do not lay the product until these are resolved.
Should you have problems with your completed work, it is best to contact the tradersperson involved and give them the opportunity to rectify the problem. If you need to escalate your complaint, you can do so by contacting Consumer, Trader & Tenancy Tribunal on 1300 135 399.