By Naldo Neto, IRATA Level 3 and licensed painter · Updated October 2026 · 1 min read
Key takeaways
- Ask for IRATA levels and who supervises on site.
- Check the NSW contractor licence and certificates of currency.
- Ask for the SWMS, rescue plan and anchor certification.
- Get the scope, coating system and warranty in writing.
Rope access contractors can look alike on paper. These ten questions separate the professional operators from the rest. A good contractor will answer all of them without hesitation.
1. Who will supervise the job, and at what level?
Every IRATA rope access job needs a Level 3 supervisor. Ask for their name and certificate.
2. Can you send current certificates of currency?
Public liability (strata buildings commonly ask for $20 million), workers compensation, and professional indemnity if they are certifying anchors or giving design advice. Check the expiry dates.
3. What licence do you hold for the trade work?
In NSW, painting and many building repairs need a contractor licence. Ask for the number and check it with NSW Fair Trading.
4. Are our roof anchors certified, and will you check them?
A professional crew won't rig from anchors without a current certificate.
5. Can we see the SWMS and rescue plan?
A site-specific safe work method statement should cover rigging, rescue, exclusion zones and protection of people below.
6. How will you protect residents, cars and the public?
Look for exclusion zones, containment netting where there is debris, tethered tools and notice to residents.
7. Who does the work, employees or subcontractors?
Knowing who is on your building matters for quality and accountability.
8. What exactly is included in the price?
Preparation, repairs, sealant, paint system, number of coats, access and clean-up should all be clear.
9. What warranty do you offer?
Ask for the workmanship warranty in writing, and whether a manufacturer warranty applies.
10. Can you show similar work?
Recent projects with photos, ideally on similar buildings, are the best evidence of what you'll get.
We are happy to answer every one of these. See our safety and compliance page, our projects, or get in touch.
Sources and further reading
- IRATA International: rope access training and the International Code of Practice
- SafeWork NSW: managing the risk of falls at workplaces
- Standards Australia: AS/NZS 4488, AS/NZS 5532 and AS/NZS 1891.4
- NSW licence check: verify any contractor's licence
Questions
What insurance should a rope access contractor have?
Public liability (commonly $20 million for strata), workers compensation and, for anchor certification or design advice, professional indemnity.
About the authorNaldo Neto leads Tactical Height Solutions. He is an IRATA Level 3 rope access technician and licensed painter with a background in rendering and remedial work on Sydney buildings. More about Naldo.