How to Write a Job Brief That Gets Better Quotes

The quality of the quotes you receive depends heavily on the quality of the job description you give. A clear brief gets you accurate, comparable quotes faster. A vague one gets vague quotes, follow-up questions and delays.

What to include in your brief

1. What needs doing. Describe the problem or the result you want, in plain language.
2. Where it is. Your suburb, and whether it's inside, outside, upstairs or in a hard-to-reach spot.
3. Size and detail. Rough measurements, the number of items, or the age and type of what's being replaced.
4. Photos. A few clear photos often tell a tradie more than a paragraph of text.
5. Timing. When you'd like it done, and whether it's urgent.
6. Access. Parking, pets, stairs, or anything that affects how the work gets done.
7. Your budget, if you have one. A range gives tradies something to work with.

Say what you want, not how to do it

Describe the outcome — "a leaking tap in the kitchen that keeps dripping" — rather than telling the tradie how to fix it. They'll know the best approach once they've seen the job.

Mention anything unusual

If the job is in an older home, involves a strata property, or has been attempted before, say so. Surprises are the main reason quotes change later.

Respond promptly to questions

Good tradies ask questions because they want to quote accurately. Replying quickly keeps your job moving and shows you're organised.

Once the quotes arrive, our guide on comparing tradie quotes will help you decide.