How to Hire a Licensed Carpenter in Australia: A Homeowner's Practical Guide

A new deck that bounces when you walk on it. A wardrobe door that sticks after three months. Roof framing that does not meet the engineer’s specs and fails the frame inspection. Bad carpentry shows up in every part of a house, and fixing it almost always costs more than getting it right the first time. With over 10,600 licensed carpenters in Queensland alone listed on TradieVerify, there is no shortage of qualified professionals to choose from. This guide explains how to hire a licensed carpenter in Australia, what qualifications to look for, the difference between structural and finishing carpentry, costs in AUD, and your rights under Australian Consumer Law.

Why You Should Only Hire a Licensed Carpenter

Carpentry sits at the heart of almost every building project, from house frames to kitchen fit-outs. The quality of the carpentry determines whether a structure is safe, straight, and built to last.

Legal requirement. In most Australian states, carpentry work above a set dollar threshold requires a licence. In Queensland, any carpentry work over $3,300 (including labour and materials) requires a QBCC licence. In Victoria, carpenters must register as a Domestic Builder Limited (Carpentry) with the VBA. A licensed carpenter has completed a Certificate III in Carpentry (CPC33020) through a three to four year apprenticeship.

Structural safety. Carpenters build the frames that hold your house up. Incorrect joist spacing, undersized bearers, or poorly fixed bracing can compromise structural integrity. A licensed carpenter understands load paths, span tables, and the Australian Standards (AS 1684) that govern timber framing.

Insurance protection. If an unlicensed carpenter damages your property or a worker is injured on your site, you may have no recourse. Properly licensed tradespeople carry public liability insurance and, if they employ staff, workers compensation insurance.

Accountability. Registered carpenters answer to state regulators. If a dispute arises, you can lodge a complaint through the QBCC, VBA, NSW Fair Trading, or the relevant state body.

Consumer guarantees. Under Australian Consumer Law, carpentry services must be provided with due care and skill, be fit for purpose, and completed within a reasonable time. These guarantees apply regardless of what the contract says.

You can verify any carpenter’s licence on TradieVerify’s search page.

1. Understand Structural vs Finishing Carpentry Before You Hire

This is the most common mistake homeowners make: hiring a finishing carpenter for structural work, or vice versa. These are two distinct skill sets, and the best carpenters usually specialise in one or the other.

Structural (rough) carpentry covers the skeleton of a building:

• House framing (wall frames, floor joists, roof trusses)
• Bearers and joists for decks and subfloors
• Formwork for concrete
• Roof framing (rafters, ridge boards, hip and valley framing)
• Bracing and tie-downs for wind and earthquake resistance

Structural carpenters work to engineering drawings and must comply with AS 1684 (Residential Timber-Framed Construction). Their work is inspected at the frame stage by a building surveyor before it gets covered by cladding and plasterboard.

Finishing (trim) carpentry covers the visible details: skirting boards, architraves, cornices, door hanging, window reveals, built-in wardrobes, shelving, staircase balustrades, and decking boards.

Why it matters for hiring. A structural carpenter who frames houses all day may not have the precision for mitred skirting joints. A finishing carpenter may not understand span tables or load-bearing wall removal. Ask which type of work they primarily do, and match it to your project.

Browse licensed carpenters in Queensland to find carpenters experienced in your type of project.

2. Check Their Licence Before You Sign Anything

Before you accept a quote or pay a deposit, verify the carpenter’s licence on TradieVerify or the relevant state register.

Here is what to check:

• Licence status. Is it current and active? An expired or suspended licence means they cannot legally take on your job.
• Licence class. In Queensland, check whether they hold “Carpentry” specifically. A general builder’s licence covers carpentry, but a carpentry licence does not cover all building work.
• Business details. Does the licence name and ABN match what appears on the quote?
• Disciplinary history. State registers often show past enforcement actions or complaints.
• Insurance currency. Ask for a copy of their public liability insurance certificate and check the expiry date.

Where to verify online:

• QLD: QBCC licence search at qbcc.qld.gov.au
• VIC: VBA practitioner register at vba.vic.gov.au
• NSW: Service NSW licence check at service.nsw.gov.au
• WA: DEMIRS online search at ols.demirs.wa.gov.au

Any legitimate carpenter will hand over their licence number without hesitation. If they avoid the question, find someone else.

3. Know What Carpentry Requires a Licence and What You Can DIY

Unlike electrical or plumbing work, not all carpentry is restricted. However, the line between DIY and licensed work is important to understand.

What homeowners can legally do:

• Small repairs and maintenance (fixing a loose board, replacing a shelf)
• Non-structural projects under your state’s licensing threshold (e.g., under $3,300 in QLD)
• Building a simple garden bed or small garden shed (check local council rules)
• Replacing interior trim like skirting boards

When you must hire a licensed carpenter:

• Any job exceeding your state’s licensing threshold
• Structural work: removing or modifying load-bearing walls, floor framing, roof framing
• Work that requires a building permit or development approval
• Decks and pergolas over a certain height or area (varies by council)
• Work on strata or body corporate common property

The grey area. Carpentry licensing in Australia is more nuanced than plumbing or electrical. In some states, a carpenter does not need a separate “carpenter” licence if the work falls under a builder’s scope. In the ACT, there is no specific carpentry licence at all. In Victoria, carpenters register as Domestic Builder Limited (Carpentry) through the VBA. The key rule: if your project needs a building permit, you almost certainly need a qualified carpenter or builder.

4. Get Three Written Quotes and Compare Properly

Get at least three written quotes before committing to carpentry work.

What a proper carpentry quote should include:

• Detailed scope of work (not just “build a deck” but dimensions, materials, and finishes)
• Timber species and grade (treated pine, hardwood, engineered timber)
• Hardware specifications (fixings, brackets, joist hangers)
• Site preparation and demolition of existing structures
• Whether council permits or engineering drawings are included
• Timeline, labour and materials breakdown, and GST inclusion

Compare like for like. A deck quote using treated pine at $150/sqm is not comparable to one using spotted gum at $300/sqm. Always compare the same timber species and same scope of site preparation.

Watch for lowball quotes. A quote significantly below the others usually means undersized timber, skip-grade fixings, or shortcuts on stumping and subframe. These problems surface within a few years as bouncy decks or split timber.

5. How Much Does a Carpenter Cost in Australia?

Carpentry costs depend on the type of work, timber species, site access, and your location. Here are indicative costs as of 2025-2026:

Hourly rates by experience:

Common carpentry jobs:

Location matters. Sydney carpenters typically charge $70 to $150 per hour, Brisbane $55 to $110, and Perth or Adelaide $50 to $120. Regional areas may charge less per hour but add travel costs.

Timber species drives the total. For a 20 sqm deck, treated pine costs $2,400-$4,000 while spotted gum costs $4,400-$7,000. Your carpenter should explain the trade-offs between cost, durability, and maintenance.

6. Ask the Right Questions Before Hiring a Licensed Carpenter

Beyond checking their licence, these questions help separate experienced carpenters from those who will leave you with problems.

About structural work:

• “What timber grade and species will you use?” (The answer should reference specific grades like MGP10, MGP12, or MGP15 for framing.)
• “Will you work from engineering drawings?” (For structural work, the answer must be yes.)
• “How do you handle the frame inspection?” (They should coordinate with the building surveyor and be present for the inspection.)

About finishing work:

• “How do you handle joins and mitres?” (Look for scribed joints or cope cuts rather than butt joints with filler.)
• “What fixing method do you use?” (Framing uses nail guns, but finishing work should use brad nails, screws, or adhesive.)

About the project generally:

• “Can you show me photos of similar completed work?” (Carpentry is visible. You want to see finished decks, frames, or fit-outs that match your project type.)
• “Do you carry public liability insurance?” (Ask to see the certificate, not just a verbal yes.)
• “What is your warranty on workmanship?” (Most carpenters offer 6 to 12 months on finishing work. Structural work is often covered by statutory warranties that vary by state.)

Search for licensed carpenters near you on TradieVerify to start comparing qualified professionals.

7. Timber Selection: What Your Carpenter Should Tell You

A carpenter who does not discuss timber options or just says “we use whatever’s available” is not someone you want framing your house or building your deck.

Structural timber grades (for framing): MGP10 is the minimum for residential framing (internal walls, short-span joists). MGP12 is used for floor joists and rafters. MGP15 is the high-strength grade required for large spans and engineered designs. Your carpenter should specify the grade on the quote.

Decking and outdoor timber:

Termite risk. Australia has highly active termite species. For any ground-contact or near-ground timber, your carpenter should specify termite-resistant timber (natural durability Class 1 or 2) or treated timber (H3 minimum for above-ground exterior, H4 for ground contact). If they do not mention termite management, ask directly.

8. State-by-State Licensed Carpenter Guide

Carpentry licensing varies across Australian states. In some states, carpenters hold a specific carpentry licence. In others, carpentry falls under the broader builder’s licence category. Here is a summary with real licence counts from the TradieVerify database:

Key differences between states:

• Queensland has the most detailed carpentry licensing, with 10,688 active licensed carpenters on TradieVerify. QBCC requires a specific carpentry licence for work over $3,300.
• Victoria requires carpenters to register as Domestic Builder Limited (Carpentry) through the VBA, separate from general building registration.
• ACT and NT do not require a specific carpentry licence. Carpentry falls under general building licensing that only applies to certain construction types.
• NSW, SA, and TAS licence carpenters under broader contractor or builder licence categories.

9. Red Flags When Hiring a Carpenter

Protect yourself by watching for these warning signs:

• No licence number on the quote. A reputable carpenter displays their licence number on all paperwork.
• “I don’t need a licence for this.” Some small jobs do fall below thresholds, but this claim is often used to avoid accountability. Check your state’s threshold.
• No site inspection before quoting. A carpenter who quotes without seeing the site is guessing at materials, access, and scope.
• Vague timber specifications. The quote should name the timber species and grade. “Standard timber” or “good quality wood” is not specific enough.
• No mention of council approvals. Decks, pergolas, and structural alterations usually require council approval. If the carpenter does not raise this, they may be planning to skip it.
• Large upfront payment. A deposit of 10-20% is reasonable. Asking for 50% or more before starting is a warning sign.
• Cash only, no invoice. This usually means no ABN, no GST registration, and no accountability if something goes wrong.
• Pressure to sign immediately. A legitimate carpenter is happy for you to take time, get other quotes, and check references.

If you suspect someone is performing unlicensed carpentry work, report them to your state regulator. In Queensland, report directly to the QBCC. In NSW, contact Fair Trading.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check if a carpenter is licensed in Australia?

Search for any carpenter’s licence on TradieVerify’s search page, which pulls data from state regulators. You can also check directly with the QBCC (QLD), VBA (VIC), or Fair Trading NSW. Ask for the licence number upfront and verify it before signing any quote.

How much does a licensed carpenter charge per hour in Australia?

A qualified carpenter typically charges $50 to $100 per hour for standard work. Rates vary by location: Sydney carpenters charge $70 to $150 per hour, while Brisbane rates range from $55 to $110. Specialist work like staircase construction or heritage restoration commands higher rates.

Do carpenters need a licence in every Australian state?

Not always a specific carpentry licence. Queensland has the clearest carpentry-specific licensing through the QBCC. Victoria requires VBA registration as Domestic Builder Limited (Carpentry). The ACT and NT do not have a separate carpentry licence. In other states, carpentry is typically covered under broader building contractor licensing. Regardless of the licence type, you should always verify your carpenter’s credentials before hiring.

What is the difference between a carpenter and a builder?

A carpenter is qualified for carpentry-specific work: framing, fit-outs, decking, and joinery. A builder holds a broader licence covering entire construction projects, including subcontracting multiple trades. A licensed builder can do carpentry, but a carpenter cannot act as head contractor on a full building project without a builder’s licence.

Should I hire a carpenter or a builder for my renovation?

If your renovation involves only carpentry (replacing a deck, built-in wardrobes, new doors and skirting), a carpenter is the right choice. If it involves multiple trades and needs a building permit, you need a licensed builder to coordinate trades and manage the permit process.

What warranty does a carpenter provide on their work?

Statutory warranty periods vary by state. In Queensland, structural defects are covered for 6 years and 6 months, non-structural for 1 year. In Victoria, 10 years structural and 6 years non-structural under the Domestic Building Contracts Act. These statutory warranties apply on top of any warranty in the contract.

Summary

Hiring a licensed carpenter in Australia comes down to these key steps:

• Verify their licence on TradieVerify or the relevant state register before signing anything
• Match the carpenter to the job by understanding whether you need structural or finishing carpentry skills
• Get three written quotes specifying timber species, grade, fixings, and full scope of work
• Discuss timber selection including termite resistance, durability class, and maintenance requirements for your application
• Understand your state’s rules including the licensing threshold and whether your state uses carpentry-specific or general builder licensing
• Verify insurance by requesting current certificates for public liability and workers compensation

With over 10,600 licensed carpenters in Queensland listed on TradieVerify, and more states being added regularly, finding a qualified carpentry professional starts with a simple licence check. Search for a licensed carpenter in your area on TradieVerify and get your carpentry project done right.

Related Guides

• How Much Does a Deck or Pergola Cost? Full 2025–2026 Price Guide — Our deck and pergola costs
• Building Permits and Approvals — Our building permits guide
• How to Hire a Licensed Builder — Our builder hiring guide

Sources

1. Queensland Building and Construction Commission: Carpentry Licence, https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/licences/apply-licence/available-licences/other-trade/carpentry
2. Victorian Building Authority: Domestic Builder Registration, https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/registration-and-licensing/building-practitioner-registration/domestic-builder
3. NSW Government: Building and Trade Licences, https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/licences-and-credentials/building-and-trade-licences-and-registrations
4. Standards Australia: AS 1684 Residential Timber-Framed Construction, https://www.standards.org.au/standards-catalogue/sa-snz/building/bd-006/as—1684-dot-2-2021
5. Housing Industry Association: Timber Framing Guide, https://hia.com.au/resources-and-advice/building-it-right/structure
6. Master Builders Association: Hire a Builder, https://www.masterbuilders.com.au/Resources/Find-a-Builder
7. ACCC: Consumer Guarantees, https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/buying-products-and-services/warranties
8. Mates Rates: Carpenter Cost Australia 2025, https://www.matesratesservices.com/cost-guides/carpenter-cost-australia