We've all heard ugly stories about bad experiences with tradies and builders - and given the costs and emotional commitments involved with most home building and reno projects, a little fear's probably sensible. In most cases though, doing your homework, being thorough and checking credentials is all that's needed to avoid grievous disputes.

Take the fearmongering with a pinch of salt. We have some very talented builders and tradies in Australia, who work to very high standards. It's normally in their interests to deliver the best possible quality, and in yours to make sure you know what you're asking them to do before they do it.

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Darcy Wilson
Editor - Build
www.build.com.au