How much deposit is normal for a tradie?

A deposit of 10–20% is standard for most jobs. For large material-heavy projects like roofing or concreting, 30–40% may be required to cover materials. Never pay 100% upfront.

Should I pay cash or by card?

Always prefer bank transfer or card so you have a paper trail. Tradies who only accept cash and don't provide invoices may be operating outside tax obligations — a red flag.

What if the tradie says they don't need a licence for this work?

Verify this independently. Many homeowners have been told this falsely. Check the relevant state authority's website or call them directly to confirm whether the work in question requires a licence.

Is it okay to use a tradie a friend recommended?

Personal referrals are valuable, but still ask all 10 questions and verify their licence and insurance. A great experience for your friend doesn't guarantee the same for your job.

Tradie Tips

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Tradie in Australia

Marcus Webb— Trade Industry Analyst6 January 20265 min read416 words

The exact questions to ask any tradie before they start work. Protect yourself, get better results and avoid costly surprises.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Most homeowners focus entirely on price when hiring a tradie. That's understandable, but price is only one factor. The right questions reveal how professional, experienced and communicative a tradie is — and often predict whether a job will go smoothly or turn into a nightmare.

The 10 Essential Questions

Ask these before signing anything or paying a deposit.

1. Are you licensed for this type of work in this state? (Ask for the licence number)
2. Are you insured? Can I see a current certificate of currency?
3. Do you have an ABN? Will you provide a tax invoice?
4. Can you provide references from similar jobs in the last 6 months?
5. What is your expected start date and completion timeline?
6. Is your quote fixed-price or time-and-materials? What happens if the job changes?
7. What does your quote include and exclude? (Materials, disposal, access, travel)
8. How do you handle variations or unexpected complications?
9. Will you be doing the work yourself, or subcontracting it?
10. What warranty do you offer on the work?