Two quotes for the same ceiling can be hundreds of dollars apart and still look similar on paper. Here are the questions we would ask if we were the customer, and what the answers should tell you.
1. What exactly does the quote include?
A good quote says what is being removed, what is being installed, what type and thickness of board, whether cornice is included, and what finish the surface will be left in. If it just says "replace ceiling" with a price, you cannot compare it with anyone else's.
2. What finish will the ceiling be left in?
The standard finish for a painted ceiling is Level 4 under AS/NZS 2589. If a contractor cannot tell you what finish they are quoting to, that is worth noting. Ask whether painting is included or whether the ceiling is left ready for your painter.
3. Are you insured?
Ask for proof of public liability insurance, and make sure it is current. If a contractor is working inside your home, you want to know that an accident is covered. We are fully insured and happy to provide details on request.
4. What warranty do you give, and is it in writing?
A warranty is only worth something if you can read it. We give a written 12-month warranty on our work. Whatever any contractor offers, ask what it covers and who you call if something goes wrong.
5. Does the job need a registered builder?
In Western Australia, larger building jobs have rules about who can carry them out and when a registered builder is required. Check the current requirements with the Building and Energy division of the state government before you sign for anything big, especially if the job involves structural change as well as ceiling work.
6. What happens if there is asbestos?
Homes built before the late 1980s can have asbestos in ceilings, cornices and textured coatings. A responsible contractor will tell you how they handle the possibility before starting. If the answer is "we will just take it down", find someone else.
7. Who is doing the work and how long will it take?
Ask who will actually be on site and what the timeframe is. Setting compound needs drying time between coats, so a rushed job is a worry rather than a bonus. We would rather tell you it takes a few days and do it properly than promise a day and leave joints that show.
8. What happens if something goes wrong later?
Cracks along joints, ceilings that move and cornice that opens up can all happen for reasons that have nothing to do with workmanship, and it helps to know how a contractor deals with that. Ask how they handle call-backs.
If you want a second opinion on a quote you have already received, send it to us. We are happy to explain what we would do differently. You can send details through our contact page, or see our ceiling repair cost guide for rough pricing context.
Frequently asked
Two or three is usually enough. Compare what is included in each rather than only the bottom line.
Not automatically. A very low price can mean a lower-grade board, thinner finish or less preparation. Check what is included before you decide.
Not necessarily, but it helps to be reachable. Agree on access and key arrangements before the job starts.
Need a hand?
RA Walls & Ceilings is a Forrestfield based wall and ceiling team, fully insured, with a written 12-month warranty. Send us your photos or plans for a free written quote.
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