5 ways you can say NO to dodgy tradies
Unfortunately, not all experiences with tradies are good. According to a recent NSW Fair Trading 2015 for 2014-2015, over 65% of home building complaints were caused by poor workmanship.
We are not saying all of these relate to dodgy tradies, but I wonder how many of these could be avoided by having done some basic upfront checks. And could it be also that consumers are choosing the “cheapest, too good to be true” prices only to be left with a disaster?
If so, it not only means that many reputable and qualified tradesmen are losing out on millions of dollars’ worth of business to dodgy tradies, but also a massive costly administration burden to Fair Trading and other state authorities in handling such complaints.
At Tradebusters Connect we believe in helping great local tradies stand out and be valued for the reputable operators they are. After all, these are the guys we know that you can rely on to go the extra mile to make sure you are not left disappointed and sure won’t be wasting your tax dollars in fighting off claims.
So aren’t these the types of businesses we should be keeping alive? And if you agree, then don’t we all have a role to play by saying NO to dodgy tradies and putting them out of business?
Say NO to door-to-door tradies asking for business
While it’s understandable for tradies to try to boost business, it’s not likely that a reputable one will come knocking at your door saying your home is in need of service.
If you need a tradie, source them in safe manners- referrals from friends and family or online sites that have a strict tradesmen screening policy and can tell you about the businesses in their network.
Say NO to verbal quotes
It is a big red flag if a tradie refuses to give you a written quote for the intended work, or if he does, it contains no business details. A verbal agreement or a simple handshake can only do more harm with the risk of the tradie increasing the price without you having something in writing to contest with.
Say NO to tradies without a licence or insurances
Ask and verify their licence number, current insurance policies, portfolio and certifications (when applicable).
The larger and more costly your job, the more caution you should exercise. Request to see some of their recent jobs and speak to their customers about the experience. Legitimate professionals should have no problem in allowing this and of course if a tradie isn’t willing too, we say…run!
Say No to cash payments or large upfront deposit requests
Tradies insisting on pure cash transactions is already a red flag.
Do also take note that depending on the state you live in a tradesmen is only able to ask for a limited upfront deposit. In NSW for example it is 10%.
Say NO to cheap quotes that look too good to be true
Sadly, this is where many homeowners get caught out by thinking they will save some dollars. Ironically these could end up being the most costly option with the risk of a dodgy tradie running off with a deposit, asking for more money part way through or you simply ending up with a badly done job.
Ensuring you do proper credentials and reference checks as part of the selection process, will help you determine if the quote is legitimate and complete.
Looking for a trusted & recommended tradespeople?
You can contact experienced builder, plumber, electrician, property buyer or mortgage broker from our Tradebusters Connect Top 3 Local Choice directory.
Here you will find highly recommended businesses near you.
Their contact details are available on this website, and you are free to contact them directly. Check out an area near you today.