Hiring a tiler: what to ask, what to avoid
Two tiling quotes for the “same” job often aren't the same job at all — the gap is usually scope: what's included, what's billed as an extra, and what you confirmed before you booked. Here's how to tell a fair deal from an expensive one, grounded in real pricing data.
The one that catches most people out
Comparing repair quotes without scope
$450 vs $1,800 for 4 tiles — the expensive one likely includes waterproofing and matching grout. Ask what is included.
Questions to ask a tiler
Most overcharging hides in the scope, not the headline price. These pin it down before you commit.
- 1
Does your quote include tile supply, or is that extra?
If it's extra, expect around $20–200/sqm.
- 2
Is waterproofing part of the price, or charged separately?
If it's extra, expect around $50–80/sqm.
- 3
Will I be charged extra for tile removal?
If it's extra, expect around $30–50/sqm.
- 4
Is complex patterns included, or an add-on?
- 5
Can you put the full scope and the final price in writing before any work starts?
Scope disputes are the single most common complaint. A written list is what protects you.
- 6
Is GST included in the price you have quoted?
A sole trader under $75k turnover can legally leave GST off, which makes a quote look about 10% cheaper than a registered business for the same work.
Three checks that take five minutes
Check the licence
For licensed trades, ask for the licence number and confirm it on your state's fair-trading or licensing site before you book. Unlicensed work can void your insurance.
Confirm they're insured
Public liability cover protects you if something gets damaged on the job. If an operator can't confirm it, that's a red flag.
Insist on a written quote
A fair quote itemises the scope, names what's excluded, and states whether GST is included. Verbal quotes are where disputes start.
Other mistakes worth avoiding
Buying tiles yourself without measuring waste
Allow 10-15% extra for cuts and breakage.
What's usually included, and what costs extra
Usually included
- ✓Laying tiles
- ✓Adhesive and grout
- ✓Basic cuts
- ✓Clean-up
Usually charged extra
- +Tile supply · $20–200/sqm
- +Waterproofing · $50–80/sqm
- +Tile removal · $30–50/sqm
- +Complex patterns
- +Levelling compound
What pushes the price up: large format tiles, pattern layouts (herringbone), waterproofing required, tile removal needed, difficult substrate.
Tiling questions, answered
Why are quotes so different for the same job?+
How long does tiling take?+
Already have a quote?
Check it against real tiling prices in 30 seconds, then walk in knowing exactly what to ask.