We get it – building and renovating are stressful projects to undertake. From finding good, trustworthy tradies to do the job and complete it within budget, to living with the dust and debris that fills any space undergoing improvements, it’s a hard day’s work for everyone.
That being said, it’s important to keep communication lines open and conversations civil. To help ensure your renovation experience remains a positive one, we’ve put together 8 etiquette rules for working with tradies to follow.
1. Make them feel welcome
Tradies are human beings. They might appear a little rough around the edges, but most are lovely! Give them helpful information about your property: tell them where to park, what pets are around the house, where the toilet is…
If your tradespeople will be spending the entire day working at your house, they will more than likely have brought their lunch. Let them know where they can set up. Is there a shady table in the yard? Or a bench on the balcony they can use for their well-deserved break?
2. Establish a professional rapport
From the get-go make sure the lines of communication are well and truly open. It’s important to express your expectations and requirements clearly while working together to establish a plan. If there is something you are unsure about, honesty is the best policy.
3. Tidy up
Tradies hate turning up to jobs that are a mess, particularly if it’s a building site or multiple trades are coming and going. Clear the area to be worked on of any obstacles or breakable items. In addition, make sure your house is easily accessible, including making room for parking if possible.
As for pets, even though your little pooch is harmless, keeping them away from the area is a good idea.
4. Check-in
Depending on the size of the job, it’s important to check in every couple of days and see how things are going. Ask for updates about the job, but also don’t forget to set aside a few minutes to chat briefly and ask them about their day, whether they need anything, even something small like a cold drink or a tea or coffee. The smallest gestures can really go a long way. That being said, don’t hover or get in the way. Keep conversations short and let them do their job.
5. Remember you’re a parent
If you have children on work sites, be vigilant and remember that they are your responsibility. It’s in children’s nature to want to look, play and explore, but if there’s power tools, glue, nails, sparks flying… it’s dangerous. Also, if you have small children, move their toys away from worksites.
6. Be reasonable
Things go wrong and sometimes it’s out of your tradie’s hands. Although frustrating, stay calm and stick to the above points.
7. Pay on time
Telling your tradie that you won’t pay them because you aren’t happy with their work – when it’s already finished – isn’t fair. This is why communicating with your tradies throughout your renovation or build process is so important; it’ll help you avoid situations where you’re disappointed and the tradie is confused because they delivered what you asked for.
If you find these types of conversations awkward, try downloading a project management app like Witzer. Witzer helps you plan your project, track progress with tradies and manage funds.
8. Show your appreciation
At the end of the job, if you are happy with the work, make sure you take the time to give them a positive review online.
Want your renovation to run smoothly? Consider picking up a copy of Nail your renovation without getting screwed by Steve Burke and Suzanne Burke.
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Enter the Tradie of the Year 2025 competition
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