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

A bathroom renovation gone wrong can cost you twice: once to pay the original tiler, and again to rip it all out and start over. Cracked tiles within months, water leaking through floors into the room below, or grout lines that look like a road map. With over 6,100 licensed tilers in Queensland alone listed on TradieVerify, you do not have to take a chance on unqualified work. This guide covers how to hire a licensed tiler in Australia, what qualifications to check, tiling costs in AUD, waterproofing requirements you need to know about, and your rights under Australian Consumer Law.

Why You Should Only Hire a Licensed Tiler

Tiling looks straightforward from the outside, but poor workmanship shows up fast and the damage behind the tiles can be far worse than what you see on the surface.

Legal requirement. Every Australian state requires tilers to hold a licence or registration for work above a set dollar threshold. In Queensland, any tiling work over $3,300 requires a QBCC licence. In New South Wales and Victoria, the threshold is $5,000. A licensed tiler has completed a Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31320) and served an apprenticeship of three to four years.

Waterproofing compliance. Wet area tiling (bathrooms, showers, laundries) must comply with AS 3740:2021 under the National Construction Code. Incorrect waterproofing under tiles is the number one cause of structural water damage in Australian homes. A licensed tiler understands the relationship between membranes, falls, and tile installation.

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

Accountability. Registered tilers are accountable to state regulators. If there is a dispute, you can lodge a complaint through the QBCC, VBA, NSW Fair Trading, or the relevant state body.

Consumer guarantees. Under Australian Consumer Law, tiling services must be provided with due care and skill, be fit for purpose, and completed within a reasonable time. These guarantees cannot be excluded by contract.

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

1. Check Their Licence Before You Sign Anything

Before you accept a quote or pay a deposit, verify the tiler’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 “Wall and Floor Tiling” specifically. Some builders hold a general licence that does not cover specialist tiling 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
• NSW: Service NSW licence check at service.nsw.gov.au
• VIC: VBA practitioner register at vba.vic.gov.au
• WA: DEMIRS online search at ols.demirs.wa.gov.au

Any legitimate tiler will provide their licence number without hesitation. If they dodge the question, find someone else.

2. Understand Waterproofing Requirements Before Tiling Starts

This is where most tiling jobs go wrong, and it is the section competitors almost never cover. Waterproofing and tiling are two separate trades, and you need to understand how they work together.

The law. Under the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS 3740:2021, all wet areas (showers, bathrooms, laundries) must be waterproofed before tiles are installed. The waterproofing membrane must be applied by a licensed waterproofer in most states. Your tiler is not automatically qualified to do waterproofing.

What must be waterproofed:

• The entire shower floor and walls to at least 1,800mm above the finished floor level where the showerhead is fixed
• Bathroom floors within 150mm of the shower, bath, or basin
• Junctions between walls and floors in wet areas
• Around all penetrations (pipes, drains, taps)

The fall. Shower floors must have a minimum fall of 1:80 (approximately 12mm per metre) towards the floor waste. The waterproof membrane itself must also be graded to the waste, not just the tile surface on top.

Your tiler’s responsibility. A good tiler will coordinate with the waterproofer and refuse to tile over a membrane that has not been properly installed or tested. They should ask to see the waterproofing compliance certificate before starting. If your tiler wants to skip straight to laying tiles in a wet area without mentioning waterproofing, that is a red flag.

Ask your tiler: “Who is doing the waterproofing, and will there be a compliance certificate?” If they cannot answer clearly, find a qualified tiler who can.

3. Know the Difference Between Tile Types and What Each Requires

The type of tile you choose affects cost, installation difficulty, and how long the job lasts. Your tiler should be able to advise on suitability for your application.

Why tile size matters. Large-format tiles (600x600mm and above) are popular for modern bathrooms but require a perfectly level substrate. If the floor or wall is not flat within 3mm over 2 metres, the tiles will lip and the finish will look uneven. An experienced tiler will assess the substrate and may need to apply a levelling compound before tiling.

Outdoor tiling. Tiles for outdoor areas must be frost-proof (if applicable) and meet slip resistance requirements. The minimum slip rating for outdoor wet areas is P4 under AS 4586:2013.

Browse licensed tilers in Queensland to find tilers experienced with your chosen tile type.

4. Get Three Written Quotes and Compare Properly

Get at least three written quotes before committing to any tiling work.

What a proper tiling quote should include:

• Area to be tiled in square metres (measured by the tiler, not estimated)
• Tile supply: who provides the tiles (you or them), and which product
• Substrate preparation: levelling, priming, removal of old tiles
• Waterproofing: included or separate (and who arranges it)
• Adhesive type: cement-based or flexible (for underfloor heating or timber substrates)
• Grout type and colour
• Labour cost and timeline
• Waste and disposal (old tile removal generates heavy waste)
• GST inclusion (mandatory for businesses turning over more than $75,000)

Compare like for like. If one tiler quotes for basic cement-based adhesive and another quotes for flexible adhesive suitable for underfloor heating, the costs will differ for good reason. Always compare the same scope.

Watch for lowball quotes. A quote 30% below the others usually means corners will be cut on substrate prep, cheaper adhesive, or thinner grout application. These shortcuts show up within 12 months as cracked tiles or loose grout.

5. How Much Does Tiling Cost in Australia?

Tiling costs depend on tile type, area size, substrate condition, and access. Here are indicative costs as of 2025-2026:

Common tiling jobs:

Labour rates. Most tilers charge between $45 and $100 per hour, or $50 to $90 per square metre for standard work. The average total job cost in Australia is approximately $2,650.

Factors that increase cost: large-format tiles, natural stone requiring sealing, complex patterns (herringbone, chevron), underfloor heating, poor substrate requiring levelling, multi-storey buildings, and tight timelines.

Location matters. Tiling in Sydney typically costs 10-20% more than Brisbane or Adelaide. Regional areas may carry additional travel charges.

6. Ask the Right Questions Before Hiring

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

About the job:

• “How will you prepare the substrate?” (The answer should mention levelling, priming, and moisture testing.)
• “What adhesive system will you use?” (Flexible adhesive for timber floors and heated systems, standard cement-based for concrete.)
• “What grout type do you recommend?” (Epoxy grout for wet areas and high-traffic floors, cementitious for walls.)
• “How do you handle waterproofing coordination?” (They should work with a separate licensed waterproofer or hold dual qualifications.)

About their experience:

• “Can you show me photos of similar completed work?” (Tiling is visual. Ask to see bathroom renovations, not just simple floor work.)
• “How long have you been tiling professionally?” (Apprenticeship takes 3-4 years. You want someone with years of post-qualification experience.)
• “Do you carry public liability insurance?” (Ask to see the certificate, not just a verbal confirmation.)

7. Know What Requires a Licensed Tiler and What You Can DIY

Unlike electrical or gas work, tiling is not entirely restricted to licensed tradespeople. However, there are situations where you must hire a professional.

What homeowners can legally do:

• Small tiling jobs under your state’s threshold (e.g., under $3,300 in QLD)
• Replacing a few broken tiles (repair work)
• Tiling a garden path or non-structural outdoor area
• Grouting and re-grouting

When you must hire a licensed tiler:

• Any job exceeding your state’s licensing threshold
• Wet area tiling (bathrooms, showers, laundries) where waterproofing compliance is required
• Work that forms part of a building approval or renovation requiring a building permit
• Strata or body corporate common property (usually requires licensed contractors)

Practical reality. Even when you can legally tile a small area yourself, tiling is one of the trades where quality depends heavily on experience. A poorly laid tile floor with uneven grout lines and lippage will be visible every day. Most homeowners who attempt DIY bathroom tiling end up calling a licensed tiler to redo the work.

8. State-by-State Licensed Tiler Guide

Each Australian state requires tilers to be licensed, but the thresholds and regulator details differ. Here is a summary with real licence counts from the TradieVerify database:

Key differences between states:

• Queensland has the lowest threshold ($3,300) and the most active licensed tilers on TradieVerify (6,126). QBCC enforces both licensing and insurance requirements.
• Western Australia has the highest threshold ($20,000), meaning tilers doing smaller jobs are not required to hold a licence. However, they still need to work under a registered builder for jobs over $20,000.
• South Australia requires licensing for all residential building work, with no dollar threshold.
• All states require the same base qualification: Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31320).

9. Red Flags When Hiring a Tiler

Protect yourself by watching for these warning signs:

• No licence number on the quote. In states where licensing is required, a reputable tiler displays their licence number on all paperwork.
• Skipping substrate assessment. A tiler who quotes without checking the flatness and condition of your floors or walls is guessing at the job.
• No mention of waterproofing. If you are tiling a wet area and the tiler does not discuss waterproofing arrangements, they are cutting corners.
• Large upfront payment. A deposit of 10-20% is reasonable. Requesting 50% or more before starting is a warning sign.
• Cash only, no invoice. This usually means no ABN, no GST registration, and no accountability.
• Claims to do waterproofing and tiling “all in one.” Waterproofing is a separate licence in most states. Check that they actually hold both licences, or that they use a licensed waterproofer.
• Refuses to show past work. Tiling is highly visual. A professional tiler is proud of their work and happy to show photos.
• Pressure to sign immediately. A legitimate tiler is happy for you to take time, get other quotes, and check references.

If you suspect someone is performing unlicensed tiling 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 tiler is licensed in Australia?

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

How much does tiling cost per square metre in Australia?

A licensed tiler typically charges $50 to $90 per square metre for standard floor or wall tiling (labour only). Large-format tiles, natural stone, and complex patterns cost more ($65 to $150/sqm). The average total tiling job in Australia costs approximately $2,650.

Does a tiler do the waterproofing as well?

In most cases, no. Waterproofing is a separate trade that requires its own licence in most states. Your tiler should coordinate with a licensed waterproofer for any wet area work. Some tradespeople hold dual qualifications, but always verify both licences separately.

Can I tile my own bathroom in Australia?

You can legally do small tiling jobs under your state’s licensing threshold ($3,300 in QLD, $5,000 in NSW/VIC/TAS/ACT). However, the waterproofing component in wet areas must be done by a licensed waterproofer to comply with AS 3740:2021 and the National Construction Code. DIY waterproofing is not compliant and may void your home insurance.

What qualification does a licensed tiler need?

All Australian states require the same base qualification: Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31320). This is a three to four year apprenticeship covering substrate preparation, adhesive systems, cutting techniques, waterproofing coordination, and workplace safety.

How long should a professional tiling job last?

Quality tiling installed by a licensed tiler on a properly prepared substrate should last 20 years or more. The weakest point is usually the grout, which may need resealing every 5 to 10 years in wet areas. Cracking or loosening within the first few years typically indicates poor substrate preparation or incorrect adhesive selection.

Summary

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

• Verify their licence on TradieVerify or the relevant state register before signing anything
• Confirm waterproofing arrangements for any wet area work, and ensure a licensed waterproofer handles the membrane
• Get three written quotes specifying tile type, adhesive, grout, substrate preparation, and waterproofing responsibility
• Check their experience with your specific tile type and project (bathroom renovation, floor tiling, outdoor areas)
• Understand your state’s rules including the licensing threshold and which regulator handles complaints
• Verify insurance by requesting current certificates for public liability and workers compensation

With over 6,100 licensed tilers in Queensland listed on TradieVerify, and more states being added regularly, finding a qualified tiling professional starts with a simple licence check. Search for a licensed tiler in your area on TradieVerify and get your tiling project done right.

Related Guides

• How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost? Full 2025–2026 Price Guide — Our bathroom renovation costs
• How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost? Full 2025–2026 Price Guide — Our kitchen renovation costs
• Getting Quotes from Tradies — Our getting quotes guide

Sources

1. Queensland Building and Construction Commission: Wall and Floor Tiling Licence, https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/licences/apply-licence/available-licences/other-trade/wall-floor-tiling
2. NSW Government: Wall and Floor Tiling Work Licences, https://www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/licences-and-credentials/building-and-trade-licences-and-registrations/wall-and-floor-tiling-work
3. Victorian Building Authority: Building Practitioner Registration, https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/
4. Housing Industry Association: AS 3740 Waterproofing Standard for Wet Areas, https://hia.com.au/resources-and-advice/building-it-right/australian-standards/articles/waterproofing-of-wet-areas
5. National Construction Code: Part 10.2 Wet Area Waterproofing, https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/editions/ncc-2022/adopted/housing-provisions/10-health-and-amenity/part-102-wet-area-waterproofing
6. Qualify Me: Wall and Floor Tiling Licence Requirements by State, https://qualifyme.edu.au/trade-licences/wall-and-floor-tiling-license/
7. ServiceSeeking: How Much Do Tilers Cost in 2026, https://www.serviceseeking.com.au/pricing/how-much-do-tilers-cost-in-2026
8. ACCC: Consumer Guarantees, https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/buying-products-and-services/warranties