thisplace.com.au - Do's and Don'ts of Trades Hiring

Do your homework

Decide what needs to be done and how much you can afford to spend
Talk to friends and neighbours about any work they had done, who did it, was it a good job and how much did it cost?
Get a copy of the house plans with water mains and drains

Get Quotes and Estimates

Before you get quotes, write down in detail all aspects of the job to be quoted
This will make it clear to each contractor exactly what you want and you will be able to easily compare quotes
Understand there is a difference between a quote and an estimate
A quote is a fixed price and if it takes more or less time and materials than originally allowed for, you still pay the quoted price
An estimated cost can be dangerous-it can be attractive as contractors do not have to budget out for the worst case scenario
Sometimes estimates can work in your favour because set quotes occasionally are blown up regardless of the fact there is no problem
If you do accept an estimate, keep a close eye on work and ask for regular updates on costs
Get at least 3 quotes or estimates
Often quoting is free but not always. check first
Quotes must include a detailed list of the work to be done, with costs broken down into labour and materials and proposed start and finish dates

Choosing the Contractor

Check that the contractor has the appropriate licence or registration to do the work
Ask for references
Don't be satisfied with written references from previous clients-speak to them or even ask if you can see an example of the tradeperson's work
If you are borrowing money for the work, the lender should run a credit check on the tradeperson

The Contract

It is always a good idea to have a contract
The simplest contract is to write on the quote you are accepting it, sign and date it and have the contractor do the same. You should include start and finishing dates
If the contractor produces his own contract, read every line
If you're asked for a deposit, don't agree to pay too much up front. About 10% is reasonable for small jobs and 5% for jobs over $20,000
If you are making progress payments, contract to make them as work stages are completed rather than on specified dates
The contract should include who is responsible for arranging insurance to cover damage to property, injury etc
Check whether the contractor is liable for incidental damage to your property - there may be a clause that protects the contractor
If you make changes after the contract is signed, do it in writing

Monitor the Job

Keep an eye on the job and complain immediately if you are not happy about something
Keep written records of the conversations

Inspect Finished Work

Go over the job yourself and then again with the contractor
Point out anything you're unhappy with and agree on a time-table for rectification

Resolving Disputes

Try to sort it out with the contractor. If that fails, try mediation.

Another option is arbitration. Some contracts state complaints will be dealt with by an arbitrator from the contractor's trade association. But the Australian Consumers Association advises that you change or delete arbitration clauses before signing, as an independent mediator may be a better option.

In Queensland for large jobs, contractors are required to have indemnity insurance. You may be able to claim for unfinished or defective work. The Small Claims Court is another option.

Source: Jackie Sinnerton - The Sunday Mail