Planning a reno? When to bring in your plumber, and how to hire the right one

Meeting subcontractors first makes a good working relationship far more likely.

For Aaron, the small stuff is the tell once work starts, and it comes down to respect for your place.

“Take off your shoes, do a nice job, don’t track mud through their carpet, clean up the water if you spill some,” Aaron says.

“Don’t let their cat outside. Whatever it is, just respect the client and what they want.”

Emma’s measure is simple: “If our team is running late, they’ll let the client know by text.”

Emma reckons the good ones don’t overcomplicate it: “We just try and be upfront with the homeowner and tell them exactly how it is.”

A tradie who keeps you in the loop and respects your space is one worth holding onto.