Hiring a Tradie in Melbourne: What to Watch Out For

Hiring a tradie for a home project in Melbourne can be a bit of a gamble if you're not prepared. Unlike dealing with licensed plumbers and electricians, many trades don't require formal qualifications to operate, so it's important to protect yourself by knowing what to look out for.

Here are some of the most common traps and headaches homeowners face:

Hidden or Unexpected Costs

Always get a written quote. Tradies sometimes lowball verbally and then surprise you with extras like "materials," disposal fees, or travel costs that weren't mentioned up front. Make sure your quote covers labour, materials, and any potential extras that could creep in down the track.

Unreliable Communication

Tradies are notorious for poor communication. Missed calls, vague text messages, and disappearing acts are common. Set expectations early and ask them when you can expect updates. If they don’t respond consistently while you’re negotiating, it’s a red flag.

Delays and Scheduling Drama

Your tradie might be juggling multiple jobs and end up delaying yours. Insist on a clear start and finish date in the contract and add penalties for delays if possible. Regularly check on progress and communicate any deadlines (like an upcoming inspection or move‑in date).

Corner‑Cutting Quality

Some tradespeople take shortcuts, leaving you with shoddy work that needs fixing later. Ask to see previous work, read reviews, and make sure they use quality materials. Request progress photos or site visits to keep an eye on workmanship.

Disappearing Acts (Taking Deposits, Not Showing Up)

It’s surprisingly common for tradies to take a deposit and then vanish or take on another job. Use staged payments: pay a small deposit, then balance payments tied to milestones or completion. Avoid paying large sums up front.

Challenging Personality

Even qualified tradies can be rude, dismissive, or get defensive when you ask questions. Listen to your gut: if they seem difficult from the start, it’s likely only going to get worse. Look for someone you can talk to without feeling like you’re an inconvenience.

Use these points to screen potential tradies and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ultimately, you want someone who communicates clearly, respects your budget, sticks to timelines, and takes pride in their work. If you set expectations early and choose carefully, you can avoid most of the headaches and enjoy a smoother renovation or home repair.