Not Every Tradesman is Created Equal

Have they completed an Apprenticeship?

A quality tradesman will have completed an Apprenticeship in their trade (which usually takes 3-4 years). Some are afforded early release of their trade for various reasons.

How much experience do they have and what is their skill set?

Whether or not they are qualified, what is their experience? The more relevant experience a tradesman has, the better your finished product is going to be.

Example:
Have they only worked in one particular area of their industry i.e. a young man completes a Carpentry Apprenticeship. During his apprenticeship, he works only in stair building. This is a really good question to ask as it will weed out those with little to no experience and those without the skill-set to complete your project.

Can they provide referees that you can contact to ask about their work?

Ask for references of recent work they have completed. A quality tradesman will be more than willing to offer up a recent referral or testimonials online.

Does the tradesman consider themselves a “Handyman”?

Now, there is nothing wrong with the term ‘Handyman’ accept for the negative connotations that come with lesser quality handymen doing poor work and giving quality handymen a bad name.
A fully qualified carpenter may call themselves a ‘handyman’ as residential clients may understand this term over the term ‘carpenter’. But in some cases it’s a way for inexperienced or unqualified tradesmen to work in the industry without having to complete an Apprenticeship or even having the relevant skills.

Does the tradesman have Public Liability and Personal Accident Insurance?

All tradesmen require public liability insurance in order to cover both the tradesman and the public from the risks of liabilities associated with this type of work and imposed by lawsuits and similar claims.

Does the tradesman clean up after themselves?

Out of respect and common decency for others, a quality tradesman will clean up after themselves. This includes: removing work boots before entering a clients premises, sweeping and vacuuming up any mess at the end of the job.

Does the tradesman have a valid Construction Induction Card (White Card)?

This is the industry standard for occupational health and safety for the building and construction industry. All trades working in this industry are required to hold a current White Card.

Is the tradesman a registered business with Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)?

To operate a business in Victoria you need to apply for a business name through ASIC. Those doing the right thing will have their registration up to date and will share this information with you.

Do they present professionally?

When you met them, did they make you feel at ease? Were they knowledgeable and did they offer advice and recommendations?
How were they dressed? Were they polite, attentive and representing their business in the best possible light?

How would you rate the overall quotation experience?

When the tradesman came out to quote your job, did they ask you questions? Did they measure up? Were they writing things down and did they offer insights you felt were helpful? If not, your instincts are probably correct – hire the tradesman who ticks all of these boxes.