Where can I get some help with maintenance of my property?

Some Age Concerns have lists of trusted local home maintenance and tradespeople, so enquire there. Sometimes a recommendation from a friend is a perfect solution, especially for the smaller, less costly jobs. 

Websites such as New Zealand based Builderscrack and others that are overseas based, offer a matching service where you place a job; the tradespeople then come back to you with a quote. You may get many or few responses. Before committing to these services, be mindful of the advice below, read reviews of the website and the reviews of individual tradespeople. The lowest price may not mean the best service. If you feel anxious about this, get a friend or family/whanau member to go through the process with you – from beginning to end if necessary. 

Independent consumer.org.nz provide good overall consumer advice and product reviews. 

The government consumer website advises the following to those who engage a tradesperson:

1. Get estimates and quotes
2. Check your tradesperson is registered
3. Ask the right questions
4. Make sure the brief is clear
5. When the work is complete – get the sign offs, warranties/guarantees, and keep the compliance certificates and relevant documents such as receipts.