When it’s time to start a home renovation or repair job, most homeowners ask the same question: Should I hire one tradie who can do it all, or bring in specialists for each task? The answer depends on your project, your priorities, and your budget.
Bundled services – where one tradie or business manages multiple aspects of a job – are increasingly common. But they’re not always the right fit for every home or homeowner.
Here’s everything you need to know about hiring tradies individually versus going with a bundled option, plus how to find the right match for your next project.
Some tradies or building businesses offer complete packages, especially for common renovations like kitchens, bathrooms, or outdoor areas. This “one-stop-shop” approach can come with a few key benefits:
With one point of contact managing the job, it’s easier to avoid miscommunication or delays. The tradie or company typically coordinates each step, so you’re not chasing multiple people to align timelines.
You may receive a packaged quote that includes everything – plumbing, tiling, electrical, and even painting – which makes budgeting more predictable. Sometimes, bundled pricing works out cheaper than hiring separate specialists.
If you prefer a low-key, tidy site with fewer tradespeople coming and going, a bundled service can feel more manageable.
With one business taking full responsibility for the project, there’s no finger-pointing between tradies if something goes wrong. You know exactly who to contact to sort it out.
There are times when working with individual specialists makes more sense – especially for complex or high-end jobs.
Certain tasks (like electrical work or detailed joinery) often benefit from having a fully qualified expert focused solely on that area. A generalist might do a decent job, but a specialist can deliver a polished finish.
Hiring individual tradies lets you hand-pick professionals for each part of the job. If you’ve had a great tiler in the past, for instance, you can bring them back without being locked into someone else’s crew.
You’re more likely to get tailored advice, solutions, or design ideas from someone who lives and breathes their trade. That can be a huge plus for heritage renovations or custom work.
|
Approach |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Hiring One Tradie / Bundled Services |
Easier coordination, single quote, less stress, clear accountability |
Less control, risk of generalist work, harder to compare individual costs |
|
Hiring Several Tradies |
Specialist quality, more choice, flexibility |
More organising for you, timelines may clash, risk of miscommunication |
Here’s a quick guide to which approach suits which type of job:
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but these tips can help guide your decision:
Before deciding how to hire, write down what needs doing. If it involves three or more different trades, bundled services might be worth exploring.
Whether bundled or not, it pays to compare prices and timelines. Look for detailed breakdowns, so you understand what's included – and what isn’t.
If you're unsure, other homeowners’ experiences can be a great guide. Look for consistency in quality, punctuality, and communication.
Even if you’re hiring a single tradie, ask if they’ll be subcontracting any part of the work. It’s good to know who’ll be turning up at your door.
❌ Hiring a generalist for specialist tasks
Even the best all-rounder shouldn't replace a licensed electrician or plumber for safety and legal reasons.
❌ Not checking licensing or insurance
Always verify that your tradie is fully licensed and insured, no matter how many tasks they’re managing.
❌ Assuming everything is included
Bundled quotes can be convenient, but always ask for itemised details so you’re not caught off-guard by “extras.”
Whether you’re after one expert or a whole team, ServiceSeeking.com.au makes it easy to compare quotes and read real customer reviews.
Post your job for free and get matched with experienced tradies in your area. You can see who offers bundled services and who specialises in your specific task – all in one place.
Sometimes one tradie is all you need. Other times, a team of specialists gives you peace of mind. Whatever route you take, hiring the right people is the key to getting the job done right.