Your tips to finding great local tradies in Sydney’s Inner West

Planning on adding a room, renovating or just putting life into your home? Making your project successful is all about finding the right tradesmen in Sydney’s Inner West to work with.

In fact it could be the difference between a great and rewarding experience or a costly disaster.

To help you get it right, read our quick tips.

Know the type of job you need

The type of trades professional you need depends on how big or complex your project is.

Here are some choices for you:

Builders – A licensed builder must be engaged for any works considered “structural” like knocking out walls, adding another level or extending out.
Specialty trades like kitchen cabinet makers and bathroom renovators if you are planning a major makeover of these spaces.
Architects – they design homes, major renovations and other types of alterations.

Insurances are important regardless of the job size

Insurances are absolutely mandatory, even for the smallest repair job by a local Inner West handyman. At a minimum any tradesmen must have public liability and property damage coverage.

You should request a copy of their insurance certificates. See to it that they are current. Otherwise, you may be held liable for any damages or injuries occurring on site of the renovation.

Payment options with local Inner West tradesmen

As much as possible do not pay cash. Some electrician or plumbers do offer a credit card payment facility. For larger jobs, the tradesmen must set out a deposit and payment schedule meaning you don’t have to make the full payment upfront.

Consider if a written contract is needed with your tradesmen

Depending on the job size, a written contract must be established. This ensures that both parties are protected should anything happen. Some important things to include in the contract include:

name, address, phone and license number of the trade business
estimated start and completion date
schedule of payment for suppliers, subcontractors and contractors
stipulated obligation of the trade business to accomplish all applicable permits
handling of change orders
detailed materials list including brand, model, product and colour among others
information on warranties
offered services of the contractor including limitations to those services

More specific information on the details of the contract and when you should obtain one are set out on the NSW Fair Trading website.

Planning on renovating your home in Sydney Inner West?

If you are looking for recommended tradesmen, and other local service providers, we have a database of tried and tested reliable professionals on our Tradebusters Connect Inner West Top 3 Local Choice directory. Each business has been vetted and checked for your safety.