Not sure who to hire? Here are 5 simple signs that show a tradie is the right fit for your job. Learn how to hire with confidence.
Hiring the right person for a job around the home—whether it’s fixing a fence, installing lights, or remodelling your kitchen—can be more stressful than the work itself. With countless options out there, it’s easy to second-guess your decision. But if you know what to look for, the right fit becomes obvious.
Whether it’s your first time trying to hire a tradie or you’ve had a few near-misses, this guide breaks down five simple signs that you’re on the right track.
1. They Communicate Clearly and Promptly
If a tradie replies quickly, answers your questions without confusion, and keeps you in the loop, that’s a very good sign. Good communication shows they respect your time and value professionalism. This doesn't mean they’ll always respond instantly, especially if they’re on-site, but they should be able to:
- Respond within a reasonable timeframe (usually within 24 hours)
- Provide clear, jargon-free quotes or proposals
- Follow through on what they say—whether that’s showing up on time or sending over documents
Pro tip: Tradies who are active and responsive on platforms like ServiceSeeking.com.au often show a track record of strong customer communication.
2. They Have Verified Reviews (And Plenty of Them)
It’s not just about five-star ratings—it’s about consistency. A tradie with dozens (or even hundreds) of verified reviews is likely someone who’s delivered quality work across a range of clients and projects. Look for:
- Comments that mention specific work completed
- Mentions of professionalism, punctuality, and cleanliness
- Photos of finished jobs uploaded by customers
Also, pay attention to how they handle less-than-perfect reviews. A respectful response can show maturity and accountability.
3. Their Experience Matches Your Job
You don’t want a kitchen tiler doing your roof—or a general handyman attempting to rewire your home. Make sure the tradie has relevant experience with your type of project. You can ask:
- “Have you done similar jobs in my area?”
- “Can I see photos of your recent work?”
- “Do you specialise in this type of task?”
On ServiceSeeking, many tradies list the types of jobs they take on, so you can quickly match the task to the right person without chasing answers.
4. Their Quote Makes Sense
Cheapest doesn’t always mean best. The right tradie will provide a quote that aligns with market rates and includes a clear breakdown of materials, labour, and timeline. If a quote seems too good to be true, ask:
- What’s included (and what’s not)?
- Does this quote include GST?
- Are there any potential extra charges?
It’s better to pay fairly for reliable work than to go cheap and pay for corrections later. Tradies who quote clearly are showing you they’ve thought through the job and respect your budget.
5. They’re Properly Licensed and Insured
In Australia, certain trades require licences by law. Plumbers, electricians, and builders should all have relevant certifications for the state or territory they’re operating in. Before you give the go-ahead, check:
- Their licence number (which you can verify online)
- Their insurance coverage, including public liability
- If applicable, their membership in professional associations
Tradies on ServiceSeeking can list their credentials and upload licences directly to their profile, giving you peace of mind right from the start.
Bonus: They Feel Like a Good Fit
At the end of the day, it’s not just about skills. A good tradie is someone you feel comfortable having in your home. Do they:
- Show respect for your space and time?
- Seem honest and upfront in conversation?
- Offer suggestions or alternatives without pushing upsells?
Trust your gut—but back it up with all the points above. When it all lines up, you’ll feel confident moving forward.
With over 1.5 million jobs posted and thousands of verified businesses listed, ServiceSeeking.com.au gives homeowners a faster, simpler way to hire a tradie. You can:
- Compare quotes from multiple businesses in your area
- Check reviews, photos, and past work
- See who’s licensed, insured, and ready to get started
When it comes to your home, don’t leave it to chance. Let ServiceSeeking connect you with the right person for the job—quickly and confidently.
Finding the right tradie doesn’t have to feel like guesswork. If they communicate clearly, have solid reviews, offer fair and detailed quotes, show relevant experience, and carry the right licences, you’re probably looking for a professional who’ll get the job done properly.
The best part? You don’t have to search blindly. Use a trusted platform like ServiceSeeking.com.au to post your job, compare options, and hire with confidence.
