The Real Cost of Shoddy Work and How to Avoid It

When it comes to home repairs or improvements, the last thing any homeowner wants is shoddy work that costs more to fix later. Unfortunately, cases of rogue tradies quoting excessive amounts or pressuring people into unnecessary jobs are on the rise. From plumbing scams to overpriced roof repairs, Australians are being warned to stay vigilant.

Here’s what you need to know about the real cost of shoddy work and how to avoid falling victim.

The Financial Impact of Poor Workmanship

Shoddy work doesn’t just hurt your wallet once. It can lead to ongoing issues that require more repairs, making the total cost far higher than if you’d hired the right tradie in the first place.

• A Sydney plumbing company was caught quoting a 98-year-old veteran over $31,000 to fix a broken toilet – another tradesman later completed the job for $550.
• In South Australia, a customer was charged $10,000 to unblock a drain and pour concrete that wasn’t even needed. Another plumber confirmed the issue could have been fixed for a few hundred dollars.
• One elderly couple in Western Australia was coerced into handing over more than $18,000 for “roof repairs” that were poorly done.

These cases highlight the financial shock homeowners can face when dealing with rogue operators.

Why Homeowners Are at Risk

Authorities and consumer groups say scammers often target people who are vulnerable, stressed, or in urgent need of help. Common tactics include:

• High-pressure sales: pushing homeowners to sign contracts on the spot.
• Fearmongering: claiming a small issue will cause major damage unless fixed immediately.
• Overcharging: quoting thousands for work worth only a fraction of the price.
• Multiple business names: hiding poor reviews by operating under dozens of identities.

Older Australians, in particular, are at risk because they’re often home during the day and may be less confident in challenging high-pressure tactics.

The Hidden Costs Beyond Money

It’s not only about financial loss. Poor workmanship can:

• Compromise safety, especially with electrical or structural work.
• Delay essential repairs, leaving your home exposed to further damage.
• Cause stress, frustration, and loss of trust in professionals.

These hidden costs show why protecting yourself from shoddy work is just as important as protecting your budget.

How to Avoid Rogue Tradies

The good news is there are clear steps homeowners can take to avoid being caught out.

1. Get Multiple Quotes

Always seek at least three itemised, written quotes. Not only does this give you a fair idea of the cost, but it also exposes inflated pricing and unnecessary recommendations.

2. Check Licences and Credentials

All tradies must display a licence number in their advertising and on quotes. Verify this online through your state’s licensing register. A licensed tradie is accountable to industry regulations and consumer law.

3. Look for Reviews and Recommendations

Independent reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations are valuable. Don’t rely solely on search engines, as some companies use multiple business names to hide poor feedback.

4. Watch for Red Flags

Be cautious if a tradie:

• Shows up unannounced and offers to start immediately.
• Demands large upfront payments.
• Refuses to provide a written contract.
• Pressures you to sign on the spot.

5. Pay Carefully

For smaller jobs, payment is usually due after the work is done. For larger projects, a deposit of around 10 per cent is standard. Avoid paying large sums in advance.

Why a Trusted Platform Matters

With complaints about rogue tradies rising across Australia, finding a professional you can trust has never been more important. That’s where platforms like ServiceSeeking.com.au come in. By connecting with licensed tradies who are reviewed by real customers, you reduce the risk of being overcharged or left with unfinished work.

When you post a job on ServiceSeeking, you can:

• Compare multiple quotes in one place.
• View ratings and reviews from past customers.
• Confirm licensing and business details.

It’s a simple way to protect your home and budget while ensuring the job is done properly the first time.

The cost of shoddy work goes far beyond an overpriced bill – it can leave your home unsafe, delay essential fixes, and cause unnecessary stress. If you’re ready to hire a tradie, make sure you do it with confidence. Post your job today on ServiceSeeking.com.au and connect with trusted professionals who value your time, money, and home.