How to choose a vinyl cladding installation expert for your new home or reno
So, you’ve decided to go with vinyl cladding – great choice! It’s stylish, low-maintenance and fast to install – perfect for Aussie homes. But choosing the right cladding installation team is just as important as choosing the cladding itself. Whether you’re building from scratch or giving your home a facelift, here’s what to look for in a cladding installer to make sure the job’s done right.
1. Licensed and insured? Non-negotiable.
Let’s start with the basics: a professional cladding installer must be fully licensed and insured.
In Victoria, installers must be a Registered Building Practitioner with the Building & Plumbing Commission (BPC). Only then can they legally carry out cladding installation on new or existing homes and multi-unit developments.
To be a licensed builder, they must also hold a current Letter of Eligibility for Domestic Builders Insurance (formerly known as Homeowners Warranty Insurance). Without this, they cannot be registered as a builder and therefore cannot legally install cladding.
Hiring a non-licensed builder could void any insurance claims if issues arise with your home. Installers are also required to have Public Liability Insurance for your protection and peace of mind. If they can’t provide proof of these qualifications and insurances, consider it a major red flag.
2. Cladding installation experience matters
Cladding installation is a specialised trade – it’s not the same as regular carpentry or general exterior work. You want someone who knows vinyl cladding inside and out.
Ask questions like:
- How many vinyl cladding jobs have you done?
- What brands or systems do you work with?
- Do you handle both supply and install?
An experienced team will be able to offer advice on profiles, colours, trims, and what works best for your type of build.
3. Local knowledge goes a long way
A local installer who knows the area (and the weather conditions) is a big win. They’ll understand how to install cladding that performs well in your environment – whether that’s coastal winds, hot summers, or chilly winters.
They may also have connections with local suppliers, meaning better turnaround times and support if you ever need maintenance down the track.
4. Check out past work
Before-and-after photos, project galleries, or even drive-by references can tell you a lot about the quality of a team’s cladding installation work.
Look out for:
- Clean, consistent finish lines
- Well-fitted trims and joins
- No warping, gaps, or buckling
- Bonus points if they’ve worked on homes like yours in style or scale.
5. Clear quotes and transparent pricing
Your installer should give you a detailed, written quote that breaks down:
- Cladding materials and labour costs
- Any scaffolding costs
- Site preparation and cleanup
- Any additional work (like insulation or removal of old cladding)
Beware of vague or too-good-to-be-true pricing. With cladding installation, quality materials and workmanship are worth every cent.
6. Communication is key
You want someone who returns calls, turns up on time, and keeps you in the loop. A good cladding installer will talk you through timelines, site access, potential weather delays, and what to expect during the job.
If they seem too busy to answer your questions upfront, they might not be the best fit for a smooth, stress-free project.
7. Cladding installation warranty and aftercare
Reputable installers will offer a workmanship warranty and install products that come with a manufacturer’s guarantee. Make sure you understand what’s covered, how long it lasts, and what happens if you need support later on.
8. Read the reviews
Don’t skip the reviews – they’re a goldmine for understanding how an installer really operates. Look for consistent praise around punctuality, professionalism, communication, and quality of work. A few five-star reviews are great, but a long trail of happy customers speaks volumes.
And if there are any negative reviews? Definitely seek out the 1 and 2 star reviews and check for grievances. See how the company responds. A respectful, helpful reply can actually boost your confidence in how they handle issues.
In summary, a great cladding installation team will be:
- Licensed, insured, and experienced
- Friendly and professional
- Transparent with pricing and timelines
- Proud of their work and happy to show it off
- Local experts who know your area
Choosing the right installer makes all the difference. Done properly, your vinyl cladding will look amazing, last for decades, and give your home that perfect mix of style and protection.
