How to Find a Good Tradesperson in Ireland ?
Most tradespeople in Ireland are skilled, reliable, and committed to doing quality work. Yet everyone has heard stories of poor workmanship or unprofessional behaviour.
This guide will help you understand how to find a trustworthy tradesperson in your area, what to ask, and what to expect in terms of cost and qualifications.
5 tips for finding a good tradesperson in Ireland
Here are five practical steps to help you choose the right professional for your project.
1. Use IrishTrades to explore local tradesmen
Finding recommendations and comparing professionals is easier than ever.
On IrishTrades, you can:
- browse profiles of builders, plumbers, electricians, roofers, and more,
- see photos, descriptions, and services offered,
- read genuine customer reviews,
- contact tradespeople directly.
IrishTrades provides a professional space where tradesmen can present their work clearly — helping you make informed decisions based on real information rather than guesswork.
2. Request quotes from at least 3 tradespeople
For any home improvement project, it’s wise to obtain three separate quotes from professionals in your area.
This allows you to:
- compare prices,
- understand typical costs,
- identify unusually high or low estimates,
- avoid overpaying.
👉 Always ask whether VAT is included in the price.
👉 Ensure that quotes are provided in writing, with a clear breakdown of labour, materials, travel, and extra fees.
3. Check qualifications and insurance
Depending on the trade, qualifications can vary in Ireland. Look for:
- Safe Pass certification,
- CSCS cards,
- relevant trade-specific certifications (e.g. Registered Electrical Contractor, Gas Installer Registered),
- Public Liability Insurance.
Don’t hesitate to ask for proof. Professional tradespeople understand the importance of transparency.
4. Choose someone with local experience
Hiring a local tradesperson has several advantages:
- familiarity with local building regulations and planning requirements,
- easier access to local suppliers,
- quicker response times,
- potential knowledge of common issues in houses in your area (e.g. damp, insulation, water pressure).
A tradesperson who knows your region will often deliver smoother, more efficient work.
5. Ask for references — and follow up
Before hiring, request references from previous clients.
Ask them:
- Were they satisfied with the work?
- Was the project completed on time and on budget?
- Would they hire the same tradesman again?
On IrishTrades, you can also read reviews directly on the tradesperson’s profile.
10 questions to ask before hiring a tradesperson
Meeting your tradesperson in person (or via video call) helps you understand their approach and professionalism. Here are ten essential questions:
- How long have you been working in this trade?
- What qualifications or certifications do you hold?
- Have you completed projects like this before?
- Can you show me photos of past work?
- Do you have Public Liability Insurance?
- Can you provide references I can contact?
- Do you offer any written guarantee on your work?
- When can you start, and how long will the job take?
- What will the full cost be, and what are the payment terms?
- How do you handle scheduling, delays, or changes during the project?
These questions help you gauge reliability, clarity, and professionalism.
How much do tradespeople cost in Ireland?
Costs vary depending on:
- the type of trade,
- the region (urban areas tend to be more expensive),
- the scale of the job,
- required materials.
Here are typical prices to help you budget:
- Plumbers: €40–€70 per hour or €300–€400 per day
- Carpenters: €30–€50 per hour
- Builders: €40–€70 per hour or €300–€450 per day
- Electricians: €45–€70 per hour or €300–€450 per day
- Painters & Decorators: €250–€400 per day
For larger projects (extensions, attic conversions, structural work), quotes are typically given per project, not per hour.
Final tips for choosing the right tradesperson
- Never rely on a single quote.
- Always get everything in writing.
- Avoid cash-only jobs with no paperwork.
- Make sure the tradesperson is properly insured.
- Read reviews and speak to past clients.
- Trust your instincts — professionalism shows early.