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Planned myQBCC outage:Saturday 11/04/2026 9.30am – 6.30pm

Individual contractor fees

Below are the fees for builders and trade contractors.

When applying for a contractor-type licence the fees you pay are determined by your annual turnover (maximum revenue—MR). 

You have the option of receiving a printed certificate stating which QBCC licence you hold. The certificates costs an additional $34.03 and can be selected on the application form.

$748.62—SC1

MR up to $200,000 p.a. (Not available to builders)

$890.61—SC2

MR up to $800,000 p.a.

  • Draw up pre-engagement agreements that clearly state the home owner's purpose. Also, define the contractor's scope of work or limits.
  • Show samples of finished work, such as display homes, so the home owner knows what to expect for their own project.
  • Discuss manufacturer's recommendations to clarify industry standards and owner maintenance responsibilities.
  • Consult with industry associations that can recommend efficient approaches to achieve acceptable standards.
  • Understand the rights and responsibilities of all parties detailed in the contract.
  • Communicate with the home owner frequently. Scheduling regular meetings and establishing times to talk through issues as they arise will help you work through most disagreements.
  • Check the contract and make sure any variations are signed by you and the home owner (and keep copies on file).
  • Understand the rights and responsibilities of all parties detailed in the contract.
  • Communication is key to a successful project. Having regular meetings and establishing times to talk through issues as they arise will help you work through most disagreements. Adhere to these times or any methods of communications agreed to maintain positive boundaries.
  • Understand the building process and practices. One of the biggest issues contractors have with their customers is the lack of understanding of the sequence of events when building. Ask your contractor about the flow of activities and what's done at each stage. If you increase your knowledge, you can avoid unrealistic expectations, and you'll have a better appreciation of the expertise needed to complete your home.
  • Ensure your contractor, trade contractor, or building designer has a current QBCC licence. You can check their licence record on our website.
  • Choose your contractor, trade contractor or building designer using recommendations of past customers.
  • Check your contract clearly states the schedule of work, total price and payment details.
  • Make sure the contractor gives you a copy of the Consumer building guide (PDF, 73KB) before signing the contract. Providing this guide, produced by the QBCC, is a mandatory requirement for all building work contracts over $20,000.
  • Check the contract and make sure any variations are signed by you and your contractor (and keep copies on file).
  • Pay attention to the details and keep accurate records. Incomplete or incorrect information on your documents can cause frustration for you and your contractor. Taking the time to record changes and include all the relevant details will help to keep everyone on the same page.

Last reviewed: 9 Apr 2026 Last published: 9 Apr 2026
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