7 red flags in home service quotes that should make you pause

1. No written quote — if they will not put it in writing, do not proceed. A verbal quote is unenforceable and leaves you with no recourse if the final bill is higher. Every legitimate provider will email or text a written quote with scope details.

2. Dramatically below market rate — they are either cutting corners on materials, will add charges during the job, or are not properly insured. Check the FairCost fair range for your service. If a quote is 30%+ below the low end, ask what is excluded.

3. Demand for large upfront deposit — more than 10-20% deposit on a standard job is unusual. For large jobs (painting, renovations), staged payments are normal but never pay 100% upfront. Never pay cash without a receipt.

4. No ABN or insurance — ask for both. No ABN means no tax compliance and possibly no legitimate business. No public liability insurance means YOU are liable if something goes wrong on your property.

5. Vague scope descriptions — 'general clean' or 'standard service' means different things to different providers. Get a specific written list of what is and is not included. The number one complaint in home services is scope disputes.

6. Pressure to book immediately — 'this price is only valid today' or 'I have another job starting tomorrow'. Legitimate providers have enough work to not need high-pressure tactics. Good tradies are booked out because they are good, not because they pressure.

7. No reviews or references available — everyone starts somewhere, but a provider with zero online presence and no references after claiming years in business is a warning sign. Check Google Reviews, Hipages, and ask for recent customer references.