What is Home Building Compensation insurance in NSW?

It protects you if the builder dies, disappears or becomes insolvent before finishing or fixing defects. It is required for residential work over $20,000, and the builder must give you the certificate before taking a deposit.

When should I hire a builder instead of a handyman?

A builder is the right starting point for an extension, structural change or a project involving several building trades. Small non-structural repairs may suit a handyman.

Who organises plumbers and electricians on a building job?

That depends on the contract. Ask whether the builder coordinates the licensed trades or expects you to engage them separately.

Builder in Sydney

Extensions, structural changes and home builds — see the work before you call

Looking for a builder in Sydney for an extension, a second storey, a granny flat or a knock-down rebuild? Compare Sydney builders by photos of their own projects, then check their licence on Service NSW before you sign.

2 businesses listed under Builder in Sydney — based in Carlton.

Contracts and insurance for building in NSW

In NSW, residential building work over $5,000 needs a licensed contractor and a written contract, and work over $20,000 needs a more detailed contract and Home Building Compensation (HBC) cover, with the certificate given to you before any deposit. Most extensions need either a development application or complying development certificate before work begins.

Services the builder tradies on this page list for Sydney include Whole-home renovation, Commercial renovation.

Before you hire a builder in Sydney

Share plans, photos and the address so the builder can understand the scope.
Check the builder’s licence or registration and the class of work it covers.
Ask who arranges approvals, specialist trades and site supervision.
Get the scope, milestones, payment stages and variations in writing.

In Sydney, builder licences are issued by NSW Fair Trading (Service NSW licence check); you can look a licence number up on its website.

Common questions

What is Home Building Compensation insurance in NSW?: It protects you if the builder dies, disappears or becomes insolvent before finishing or fixing defects. It is required for residential work over $20,000, and the builder must give you the certificate before taking a deposit.
When should I hire a builder instead of a handyman?: A builder is the right starting point for an extension, structural change or a project involving several building trades. Small non-structural repairs may suit a handyman.
Who organises plumbers and electricians on a building job?: That depends on the contract. Ask whether the builder coordinates the licensed trades or expects you to engage them separately.

Builder in other cities

Often hired together

Can't find the right tradie?

Tell us what you need. We'll email you when someone who does it lists here.