Here are a few guidelines to help you choose the right tradesperson to do your job.  Whether it's a builder, plumber or painter, the following guidelines will ensure your own peace of mind when choosing a tradesperson through Workfind:

Previous customers, word of mouth and reading of past Member Reviews

Ask the tradesperson for references or names of previous and/or satisfied customers and if possible, try to see an example of previous work carried out.  You can also find out from previous customers what they thought of the tradesperson by reading their feedback or reviews left on this site.  With Workfind, you can easily search for a tradesperson in your area and read reviews of other people who have hired the services of any tradesperson.

Remember that just because a tradesperson doesn't have any Member Reviews, they still could be very capable of doing the job and be a good worker.  Usually you should be able to find some information of past work they have done to help you make your decision.  If they cannot show you any past references or work records, be very wary of employing their services.

Another good option is the choice of using Payment Minder so that you don't release any money to the tradesperson until you are satisfied with the work they have performed.

Word of mouth is usually a reliable source of finding a good tradesperson and in Workfind's case, Member Reviews left by previous customers are also a valuable source.

Make sure the tradesperson is qualified

There are certain trades that legally must be performed by qualified tradespeople who have the appropriate licence to perform certain work.  This includes plumbers and electricians and many others.

Job description for the tradesperson

Make sure you have a good understanding of what work you want to have done and your requirements for the job.  Often big jobs like house alterations or extensions will require plans and permits, and in this case, ensure you have spare sets of plans to enable the tradespeople to take away to work out a quotation from.

For smaller jobs, try to ensure that you and the tradesperson have a clear understanding of what work will be performed and what materials will be used and that this is in writing, preferably in the form of a fixed quotation.  Also make sure a time frame has been established between you and the tradesperson for the job to be done.

Quotations & estimates

The difference between quotations and estimates is that a quotation is a fixed price, which after it has been agreed to and signed by both the customer and the tradesperson, it cannot be changed whereas an estimate is more flexible and can be changed.

Estimates are usually used in the case of smaller jobs where it is not possible to know the exact costs of the job until the work is underway.  Usually even with estimates, the tradesperson should let you know if you are incurring any extra expenses and for what reason the extra expenses are incurred.  Estimates should still end up within 10%-15% of the final cost given unless there are obvious underlying factors which have changed the price.

It is always best and safest to insist on a fixed price quotation in writing as this gives you a certain amount of assurance of what you will pay for the job.  It is common practice when getting quotations or estimates for a job to receive at least 3 from different tradespeople to compare pricing and choose your favourite.  Never let a tradesperson make you feel that you are obliged to use them while you are in the process of deciding whom to use.

You can also hire tradespeople on an hourly rate i.e. charge up basis which is quite common and an acceptable way of doing things, but it is still advisable to at least receive an estimate for the job that needs to be done as it can work out rather expensive if you get a slow worker.

Before the job begins or signing of any contract

Before signing any quotation or estimate or agreeing to the tradesperson commencing the work, ensure that all quotations and estimates are in writing, signed and dated and includes any GST content.  If it is a quotation or estimate, make sure you have thoroughly read the contents and have a good understanding of the terms and conditions and what you are agreeing to before you sign.  If necessary, take any appropriate legal advice.  Also be sure to see if there is any guarantee offered by the tradesperson for the workmanship and materials and make sure this is also in writing.

Payments

If you employ the services of a tradesperson and there is no quotation or price agreed to, i.e. on a charge-up basis, under the Consumer Guarantees Act you do not have to pay more than what is considered to be a reasonable rate.

Never pay a tradesperson too much money in advance.  For smaller jobs it can be common for the tradesperson to require a deposit of 50% so as to cover the costs of materials.  We would consider an amount over this excessive.  For larger jobs it is best to agree on progress payments and pay as the work is completed.

Disputes

If a dispute arises between you and the tradesperson, try to work out a fair and reasonable solution for all parties and if unable to resolve the matter, then seek legal advice.

Remember, when employing a tradesperson through Workfind, to always tick the appropriate box to confirm this so you have the opportunity to leave a Member Review about their workmanship.  This will also act as an incentive to the tradesperson.