Rogue Tradies and the Real Cost of Cutting Corners

It usually starts with a small job. A quick repair, a last minute callout, a promise to fix the problem “cheap and fast.” Weeks later, the invoice is double what was quoted, the work is unfinished, and the contractor has stopped answering calls.

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This isn’t an isolated story. Across Australia, complaints about unlicensed and unqualified tradespeople are on the rise. In NSW alone, regulators have reported a surge in rogue tradie activity in 2025, leaving residents and property managers footing the bill and in some cases, facing compliance breaches.

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For strata and facility managers, the risks go far beyond budget overruns. A single contractor cutting corners can compromise safety certifications, trigger insurance issues, and erode tenant trust overnight. In high density buildings, one bad decision can affect hundreds of people.

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The solution?

Rigour, not shortcuts. Every contractor engaged should have credentials verified, insurances documented, and compliance records stored digitally. Transparent processes protect not only the building but the reputation of those managing it.

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In an era of tighter regulation and heightened tenant expectations, trust has become the currency of property maintenance. For managers in 2025, discipline and diligence aren’t optional extras, they’re the foundation of sustainable strata and facility management.

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Sources & References

• Guardian Australia – Rogue Tradies Targeting Vulnerable Australians (2025)
• NSW Building Commissioner – 2025 Compliance Updates

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