Licensed or Unlicensed? What to Check Before You Hire a Tradie

Hiring a tradie who isn't properly licensed for the work can leave you exposed — from work that has to be redone to problems with insurance later on. The good news is that checking takes only a few minutes.

Step 1: Find out whether the work is regulated

Some work — commonly electrical, gas and plumbing, and larger building work — is regulated and must be done by a licensed person. Other jobs, like general handyman tasks or gardening, often aren't. Your state or territory's licensing or fair trading body is the place to check what applies to your job.

Step 2: Ask for their licence details

Ask the tradie for their licence number and the name it's registered under. A genuine tradie will be happy to provide it. Note that the name on the licence should match the business you're dealing with.

Step 3: Verify it with the regulator

Most regulators offer a public register you can search online. Confirm the licence is current, covers the type of work you need and doesn't show any conditions or disciplinary action you're not comfortable with.

Step 4: Ask about insurance

Ask whether the business holds public liability insurance and, where it applies to your job, other cover required in your state. You can ask to see a certificate of currency.

Step 5: Check the ABN

A legitimate business will have an Australian Business Number. You can look it up on the free public ABN Lookup service to check the registered business name and whether the ABN is active.

Step 6: Get it in writing

Once you've chosen a tradie, have the scope, price and timeframe in writing, and keep any paperwork you receive when the job is finished — it can be useful later if you sell the property or need to make a claim.

Want a head start? Search the TradieCorner directory for local businesses, then run through these checks with your shortlist. Our guide to finding a reliable tradie covers the rest of the process.