The short answer
The biggest red flags are no traceable business details, a price that leaves things out, and any push to pay before the work is done. If you see one, slow down and ask for it in writing.
These red flags follow Consumer Affairs Victoria advice.
Red flags Consumer Affairs Victoria lists
Watch for any of these before you sign or pay:
- no fixed address or registered business name, which makes the tradie hard to trace
- a low price that leaves out items, or a base rate that does not cover the materials
- a request to change the stage payments, or to be paid before a stage is complete, which can signal cash flow problems
- price increases or changes that are not put in writing and signed before the work goes ahead
- a deposit request over $16,000 before you receive a certificate of currency for domestic building insurance
- work over $10,000 by someone who is not registered with the Building and Plumbing Commission
Pressure to pay a large deposit
Consumer Affairs Victoria has pursued enforcement over alleged excessive deposits and upfront payments for jobs like fencing and concreting. Its advice is to be wary of anyone pressuring you for a large deposit.
A good tradie will let you take a day to think and will put every figure in writing.
What to do if you spot one
Do not argue. Say you will decide once you have it in writing, and ask for the item to be fixed in the quote. If the tradie will not do it, walk away. There are always more tradies to ask.
Common questions
What is the biggest red flag?
Being asked to pay before the work is done. Consumer Affairs Victoria advises not to pay in advance.
Is a very cheap quote a red flag?
It can be. Consumer Affairs Victoria warns a low price may leave items out. Check what is included before you compare totals.
Where do I complain about a tradie?
Start with your state consumer affairs or fair trading body. In Victoria that is Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Sources
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: getting quotes, checked 11 November 2026
- Consumer Affairs Victoria: protecting homeowners from dodgy builders and tradespeople, checked 11 November 2026