Step 1: Document Everything
- Take photos and videos
- Keep all communications
- Save contracts, quotes, invoices
- Note dates and what happened
Step 2: Communicate with the Tradie
- Contact them in writing
- Describe the problem clearly
- Request they fix the issue
- Set a reasonable timeframe
- Keep copies of all correspondence
Step 3: Give Opportunity to Fix
- Allow reasonable time to respond
- Let them inspect the problem
- Get their proposed solution in writing
Step 4: Escalate if Needed
- Contact your state Fair Trading
- Lodge a formal complaint
- Request mediation
Step 5: Formal Dispute Resolution
- Building commission complaint
- NCAT or tribunal claim
- Small claims court
- Legal action (for larger amounts)
Don't Do
- Withhold payment without proper process
- Engage another tradie without documentation
- Destroy evidence
- Make threats