Summary

22 items · 30–60 minutes

Why Preparation Matters Before Any Trade Job

Calling a tradie without doing your homework first is one of the most common ways homeowners end up overpaying, under-communicating, or facing unexpected problems once work is underway. A few hours of preparation can make the difference between a smooth job and a drawn-out dispute.

This checklist walks you through three phases: scoping the problem, gathering the right documentation, and knowing what to ask before anyone picks up a tool. Whether you're dealing with a leaking pipe, faulty wiring, or a structural concern, the same principles apply.

If you're still deciding whether to tackle a task yourself, our DIY vs. hiring a contractor guide can help you make that call first. And if you're a renter, check your lease and speak with your landlord before arranging any trade work — responsibility for repairs varies significantly depending on your agreement.

Scope the Problem

Describe the problem in plain language — what you see, hear, or smell, and when it started. Must
Photograph or video the issue from multiple angles, including any surrounding context (e.g., water stain, cracked wall, damaged fitting). Must
Note when the problem first appeared and whether it has changed in severity. Must
Identify whether the issue is isolated or part of a recurring pattern across the home. Should
Measure the affected area or affected run (e.g., length of pipe, square footage of flooring) so you can describe scale accurately. Should
Check if the issue is covered by a home warranty, existing insurance policy, or your landlord's maintenance obligation before spending anything. Must

Gather Documentation

Locate any previous repair records, inspection reports, or warranties related to the system or area in question. Should
Find your home's original plans or renovation permits if the work involves structural, electrical, or plumbing systems. Should
Note the age and make of any appliance, fixture, or system involved — this helps the tradie prepare. Should
Write down any access restrictions (narrow gate, no parking, scheduled resident hours) the tradie will need to know. Must
If you're a renter, get written permission from your landlord or property manager before proceeding. Must

Verify Credentials Before Booking

Confirm the tradie holds a current license for the trade in your state or territory — check with your local licensing authority. Must
Ask for proof of public liability insurance and, where relevant, workers' compensation coverage. Must
Request references from recent comparable jobs and follow up with at least one. Should
Get at least two itemized written quotes before committing, so you can compare scope and pricing fairly. Should

Ask Before Work Begins

Ask whether the job requires a permit or council approval, and confirm who is responsible for obtaining it. Must
Clarify the full scope of work in writing — what is included, what is excluded, and what happens if additional issues are uncovered. Must
Confirm the payment schedule upfront — avoid paying the full amount before work is completed. Must
Ask how long the job is expected to take and what disruption to your home or routine to expect. Should
Find out what warranty or guarantee the tradie offers on their workmanship, and get it in writing. Must
Ask what materials or finishes will be used, and confirm they meet relevant Australian standards where applicable. Nice to have

Tools and Information You'll Need Ready

Before you start working through the checklist, gather these resources. Having them on hand speeds up every step — from describing the problem accurately to verifying a tradie's credentials.

Required

Smartphone camera

Capture photos and video of the problem and affected area before work begins.

Required

Tape measure

Record dimensions of the affected area to help tradies estimate materials and time.

Required

Home maintenance folder or digital folder

Store quotes, contracts, license numbers, photos, and past repair records in one accessible place.

Required

State or territory licensing authority website

Verify that a tradie's license is current and covers the type of work being done.

Required

Notepad or notes app

Record questions, answers, and key details discussed during phone or in-person consultations.

Optional

Copy of your lease or home warranty documents

Confirm who is responsible for repairs and whether any coverage applies before you pay out of pocket.

It's also worth understanding when a permit or inspection is legally required for the work you're planning. Jobs involving electrical panels, gas lines, structural changes, or plumbing tie-ins to the mains often require licensed tradespeople and local authority sign-off. Our article on permits, inspections, and licensed trades covers this in detail — consult it before you call.

Never Pay the Full Amount Upfront

A deposit is reasonable for larger jobs, but paying in full before work is completed removes your leverage if problems arise. A common payment structure ties final payment to satisfactory completion. If a tradie insists on full payment before starting, treat this as a red flag and seek another quote.

Unlicensed Work Can Void Insurance and Create Liability

If a tradesperson performs regulated work — electrical, gas, structural, or plumbing — without the required license, your home insurance may refuse to cover related claims. Beyond insurance, unlicensed work can create legal liability for you as the homeowner. Always check credentials before booking, even for jobs that seem minor.

Before You Commit: Verify and Confirm

Once you've scoped the job and spoken with one or more tradies, don't skip the verification step. Checking credentials and getting everything in writing isn't distrust — it's standard practice that protects both parties.

The same careful questioning that applies to a big purchase applies here. Our checklist of questions worth asking before any major commitment maps well onto the trade context: think about longevity of materials, what happens if something goes wrong, and what the rectification process looks like.

Get Everything in Writing Before Work Starts

A verbal agreement is extremely difficult to enforce if a dispute arises. Insist on a written contract or at minimum a detailed written quote that covers scope, materials, timeline, and payment terms. Photographs taken before work begins — time-stamped by your device — are also valuable evidence if the condition of your property is later disputed.

Finally, keep a folder — physical or digital — with all quotes, contracts, license numbers, and photos taken before work began. If a dispute arises, this documentation is your clearest path to resolution.

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Home & Living Editorial Team · Contributor

Home & Living Editorial Team is the collective byline for our editorial team and contributor network. Articles published under this byline or an editorial pen name are researched, written, and reviewed according to our editorial standards for clarity, consistency, and independence before publication.

The content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.