Rates are the most asked and least published number in the trade. This page explains how subcontract work is priced and what to check, rather than quoting a rate that would be wrong in half the country.
How subcontractors are priced
Per job. A fixed price for a defined install, such as a standard single-phase residential system on a tiled roof. Simple for the retailer, but the scope has to be tight: what is included, who supplies mounting, who handles the switchboard upgrade, what happens if the roof is harder than expected.
Per kW. Common for larger residential and commercial systems, where labour scales with panel count. Watch for add-on charges for batteries, three-phase work and metering.
Day rate. Typical for supervised crews and where the retailer controls the schedule. Clearer for the contractor, but the retailer bears the productivity risk.
What moves the number
- State and region, including travel and accommodation
- Roof type and access, plus two-storey and tile work
- Whether the subcontractor supplies labour only or also materials, tools and scaffolding
- System type: solar only, solar with battery, hybrid
- Warranty on workmanship and callback obligations
- How fast you pay
Compliance comes with the rate
The cheapest quote is not the cheapest job. The installer has to be licensed and SAA accredited, attend as the rules require, and take the photos and sign the declarations that support the claim. See installer attendance requirements and installer written statements. A failed claim can cost more than the saving.
Ask for:
- electrical licence and accreditation numbers, checked on the register (how to check)
- certificates of currency for public liability and, where relevant, workers compensation
- a clear statement of whether they are an employee or contractor, because the retailer written statement records it
From the desk: sham contracting is a real risk. If you control hours, tools and methods, the regulator may see an employee, with the superannuation and workers compensation that implies. Take advice from an accountant or the Fair Work Ombudsman before locking in the arrangement.
What this means for installers
Pay on a clear milestone and document it. Settlement speed is part of the equation: if you are waiting weeks on STC payment, you are funding your subcontractors out of your own pocket. Our cash flow answer shows how that bites, and the how-it-works page shows the claim path. For other business costs, see start-up costs and the installers hub.