1. I have shopped around carefully for a builder or tradesperson.

2. My builder or tradesperson holds a current licence.

3. My builder or tradesperson is appropriately licensed for the work to be done.

4. My builder or tradesperson has, or can obtain before work commences, home warranty insurance for contracts over $5,000* to cover defective and incomplete work.

5. My builder or tradesperson has appropriate insurance to cover other matters.

6. When the market value of the work is over $5,000*, the certificate of home warranty insurance (for defective and incomplete work) will be given to me by the builder or tradesperson before work commences.

7. The builder or tradespersons name and number on the licence card match those on the contract.

8. I know the total contract price for the work and it is clearly shown on the contract.

9. I know what factors can affect the contract price.

10. I am not paying more than the legally allowable maximum deposit.

11. The work I want done corresponds with the plans and designs attached to the contract (varying the contract after you have signed it can cost you more).

12. The contract states when the work will start and finish or how long it will take (completion date).

13. I understand what factors can affect when the work starts and finishes.

14. I know what to do in case of a dispute with the builder or tradesperson.

15. I know what to do in case I find any defective work

16. I understand every clause in the contract.

Note: This value will vary from state to state, check which amount is applicable to your contract.

Important questions to ask a builder or tradesperson

• Are you currently licensed?

• What is your Contractor Licence number? (The name and number on the licence must match those in the contract.)

• Is your licence appropriate for the work?

• Do you have proper forms of insurance?

• Where can I see examples of your work?

• Who will supervise the work?

• How much will it cost?

• How much deposit do you need?

• When can you start the work and how long will it take?

• When are progress payments to be made?

• What happens if the work is defective?

• Who cleans the site?