Rope access contractors can look very similar on paper. The differences show up on site: how the work is planned, who supervises it, how defects are reported and whether the job is finished properly. These eight questions help strata managers, building managers and builders check a rope access company before awarding work.
For an overview of what we do, see our rope access services in Sydney. If you are comparing painting quotes specifically, also see 10 questions to ask before accepting a painting quote.
Looking for a Sydney rope access contractor now? See our rope access services in Sydney or request a quote.
1. Who will supervise the work, and at what IRATA level?
Industrial rope access in Australia is commonly carried out under the IRATA system. Teams should be supervised by a Level 3 technician who is responsible for the rigging, rescue plan and safe system of work. Ask who that person is and whether they will be on site. Our article on the IRATA Level 3 supervisor role explains what they do on a building.
2. Do they hold the trade licence for the work being done?
Rope access is the access method, not the trade. In NSW, painting and many repair works need the appropriate contractor licence. Ask for the licence number and check it on the NSW Fair Trading register. Ace Abseiling’s NSW Contractor Licence is 465770C.
3. What insurance do they carry?
Ask for current certificates of currency for public liability and any other cover your organisation requires. Check the policy limit and that the insured activities include work at height.
4. How will they confirm the anchors are safe?
Every drop relies on roof anchors. Ask how the contractor checks anchor certification before rigging, and what happens if the anchors are missing, out of date or poorly placed. A good contractor will raise this at inspection, not on the first morning of work. See our guide to anchor point certification in NSW.
5. What safety documentation will you receive?
Expect a site-specific safe work method statement, a rescue plan, exclusion zone details and evidence of equipment inspection. If a contractor is vague about documentation, that tells you something about how they run their sites.
6. Have they done similar work on similar buildings?
Painting a strata tower, repairing concrete on balcony edges and tracing a façade leak are different jobs. Ask for examples of comparable projects, photos and, where possible, a reference from a strata or building manager.
7. How will defects and progress be reported?
One of the advantages of rope access is that technicians see the façade up close. Ask whether you will receive photos of defects found during the works, how variations are priced and approved, and what the handover report includes.
8. Is the quote clear about scope and exclusions?
A low price is often a narrower scope. Check that each quote covers the same elevations, preparation, repairs, access and documentation before comparing totals. Our cost guide explains what drives the price.
Red flags
- No clear answer on who supervises the rope access team
- No trade licence for painting or repair work
- Reluctance to provide insurance certificates or a SWMS
- No mention of anchors until the day work starts
- A one-line quote with no preparation or exclusions listed
FAQs
Is rope access safe?
When it is planned and supervised properly under a recognised system such as IRATA, with certified anchors and a rescue plan in place, rope access has a strong safety record.
Is rope access cheaper than scaffolding?
Often on multi-storey buildings and targeted scopes, because there is no scaffold to hire and erect. It is not always the cheapest option, and a good contractor will tell you when another access method suits the job better.
How do I check a contractor’s licence in NSW?
Search the licence number or business name on the NSW Fair Trading licence check service.
Looking for a rope access contractor in Sydney? Ace Abseiling was established in February 2021 and is led by a Director with more than 15 years of rope access experience, with IRATA Level 3 supervision and NSW Contractor Licence 465770C. Contact us to discuss your building.
