The vetting checklist that applies to every Adelaide specialist

This is the same vetting method BuildPilot applies to every Adelaide builder we consider for our shortlist network. The first four checks below are specialist-specific; the rest are the core CBS SA + BII + ASIC checks that apply to every domestic builder working in South Australia.

• Ask specifically who does their waterproofing and whether they hold current AS 3740 waterproofing certification - waterproofing failure is the number-one Adelaide bathroom-reno defect claim
• Ask which Adelaide tiler they use regularly - relationship tilers produce more consistent grout lines and fewer chip-out call-backs
• Ask for their PC allowance policy on tapware, tiles, vanities and shower screens - bathroom PC variance is where budgets blow
• Ask whether the shower will be a hobbed shower or a flush level-access shower (the level-access route adds $1.5k-$3k but future-proofs for aging-in-place)
• Verify current CBS SA Builders Licence (BLD number) on the public register at cbs.sa.gov.au/services/find-licensee
• Verify no active or recent disciplinary decisions on the CBS SA register
• Confirm Building Indemnity Insurance (BII) will be issued through QBE (SA sole insurer) for your contract price (all residential work over $12,000)
• Search the ABN on abr.business.gov.au - name, GST status, date of registration
• Confirm the entity is not under external administration on the ASIC register

The Adelaide wet-area re-plumb cost trap

Older Adelaide homes (pre-1990) often have galvanised or first-generation copper supply pipes and clay-slip sewer stack. When a bathroom reno opens up the walls, most SA plumbers will strongly recommend replacing the pipe rather than reconnecting. Budget an extra $2k-$6k for pipe replacement on any pre-1990 Adelaide bathroom reno - it is not optional if you want a 20-year outcome. Skip it and you will re-open the walls in 5-10 years.

The four red flags that end the conversation

These four signals correlate strongly with builders who have failed or entered administration in South Australia in the last three years. Any of them means walk away.

• Requested deposit exceeds 5% of contract value on contracts over $12,000 (SA statutory cap under the Building Work Contractors Act 1995)
• Vague or evasive answer on BII eligibility for your specific contract price (QBE is the sole SA insurer - either the builder qualifies or they do not)
• Refusal to name their independent building certifier or to let you speak to them separately
• Aggressive time-limited discount contingent on paying deposit before you have read the contract