Tradie Cost Guides
Know what you should pay before you pick up the phone. Our cost guides cover hourly rates, call-out fees and typical job prices for every major trade across Australia.
Why Tradie Costs Vary
State and Territory
Labour rates in NSW and VIC are typically 15 to 25 percent higher than in regional Queensland or South Australia. Higher cost of living, demand and licensing fees all contribute.
Job Complexity
A simple tap washer replacement costs very little. The same plumber rerouting pipes in a bathroom renovation will quote a full project price. Always describe the job clearly when requesting quotes.
Time of Day and Urgency
After-hours callouts, weekends and public holiday rates can be 1.5 to 2 times the standard rate. If your job is not urgent, book ahead and save significantly.
Browse by Trade
Electrician
Hourly rates from $80 to $130. Call-out fees $80 to $150.
View full guidePlumber
Hourly rates from $80 to $120. Call-out fees $80 to $180.
View full guideBuilder
Day rates from $400 to $700. Project prices vary widely.
View full guideTiler
Per-square-metre rates from $35 to $80 depending on tile type.
View full guidePainter
Interior rooms from $300 to $800. Full house from $3,000 to $12,000.
View full guideCarpenter
Hourly rates from $60 to $120. Custom joinery and decking quoted by project.
View full guideConcretor
Driveways from $50 to $150 per square metre. Slabs quoted per project.
View full guideRoofer
Roof repairs from $300 to $1,500. Full re-roofs from $8,000 to $30,000.
View full guideLandscaper
Hourly rates from $45 to $85. Garden designs and makeovers quoted by scope.
View full guidePest Control
Standard treatments from $150 to $400. Termite inspections from $200.
View full guideAir Conditioning
Split system supply and install from $1,200 to $3,500 depending on size.
View full guideLocksmith
Lock-out callouts from $100 to $250. Lock replacements from $120.
View full guideTips for Getting the Best Price
Get at least three quotes
Always compare a minimum of three written quotes for any job over $500. This gives you a realistic price range and negotiating power.
Describe the job clearly
Vague job descriptions lead to vague quotes. Provide measurements, materials you already have, and photos where possible.
Ask what is included
A low quote may exclude materials, waste removal or follow-up visits. Always confirm the full scope of work in writing.
Check for call-out and travel fees
Some tradies charge a flat call-out fee on top of hourly rates. For small jobs, this can double the effective cost.
Avoid same-day emergency bookings where possible
If you can wait even 24 to 48 hours, you will often access significantly lower standard rates.
Use a licensed tradie
Unlicensed tradies may be cheaper upfront but their work may not meet code, and you have limited legal recourse if something goes wrong.
Ready to Get a Quote?
Use our job cost calculator to estimate your budget, then connect with verified tradies in your area.