Queensland · 2025
Licensing requirements, statutory warranty periods, key legislation, and cost benchmarks for trade work in Queensland.
Licence requirements apply to contractors performing work for payment. Always verify current requirements with the issuing authority before engaging a trade. Items marked [verify] should be confirmed against current legislation.
Structural defects
6 yr
6 years and 6 months from practical completion for structural defects under the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme. [verify exact period under current QBCC Act]
Non-structural
1 yr
1 year from practical completion for non-structural defects.
Key legislation
Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991; National Construction Code
QLD administers the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme through QBCC. Insurance is required for most residential contracts over $3,300 (or $20,000 for multi-unit). Disputes can be lodged with the QBCC or Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991
Core legislation governing building work and trade licensing in QLD. Establishes the QBCC, statutory warranty obligations, and the home warranty insurance scheme.
Electrical Safety Act 2002
Governs electrical safety in QLD, including licensing of electrical workers and contractors. Administered by the Electrical Safety Office.
Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018
Governs plumbing and drainage work licensing, standards, and inspections in QLD.
Gas Supply Act 2003
Governs the supply, distribution, and use of gas in QLD, including safety requirements for gas installations.
Track legislative changes across all states on the Trade Legislation Tracker.
Indicative 2025 market rates for Queensland. Actual prices vary by scope, location, and contractor. Always obtain multiple quotes.
Electrician — call-out / first hour
$130–$210
per call-out
Electrician — hourly rate
$85–$165
per hour
Plumber — call-out / first hour
$140–$220
per call-out
Plumber — hourly rate
$90–$185
per hour
Switchboard upgrade
$1,200–$3,600
per job
Hot water system — supply and install (heat pump)
$2,400–$4,500
per job
Split system air conditioning — supply and install (3–5kW)
$1,300–$3,000
per job
Roofing — Colorbond replacement
$50–$115
per m²
Painting — interior walls
$20–$40
per m²
Painting — exterior full repaint
$25–$50
per m²
Bathroom renovation (full)
$13,000–$38,000
per job (varies by scope)
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Post a job →Steadyhand · Queensland trade guide · 2025 · Indicative only. Verify licence requirements and warranty periods with the relevant state authority.