Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Inspect ceiling to identify loose plaster, cracks and any underlying plasterboard damage

• protect floors and furniture and set up dust control and extraction where needed

• erect mobile tower or use step access to work safely at height

• remove loose or delaminated plaster and cut out damaged plasterboard where required

• fit and tape plasterboard joints or key the existing surface and apply bonding coat

• apply one or two skim coats of finishing plaster, allow to dry and sand to a smooth finish

• clear debris, vacuum with dust extraction and leave ceiling ready for decoration

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Most single-room ceiling skims take 1–2 days on site (preparation and two coats), with 24–72 hours drying time between coats; larger repairs or full replastering can take 2–4 days and may need extra visits for board replacement or scaffold access

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• Do you recommend replacing any plasterboard or is a skim sufficient

• What drying time and redecoration window should I allow

• Will you provide dust extraction and how will you protect the rest of the house

• Does your quote include materials, disposal and any scaffold hire

• Are you insured and can you provide references for similar ceiling work

• What guarantee do you offer for the finish and any cracking after drying

How to Avoid Surprises

• clear the room and remove pictures, lights and fragile items from the work area

• ensure good access and book a nearby parking space for the tradesperson

• tell the tradie about low ceilings, loft hatches or restricted entry before work starts

• check for asbestos in properties built before 2000 and disclose any previous work that disturbed the ceiling

• agree scaffold or tower arrangements and who is responsible for hiring and safety checks