Why it matters
In 2024, about 97% of the 962 renovation complaints CASE received were against firms without CaseTrust accreditation. In 2025, renovation prepayment losses fell 73.8% as more homeowners chose accredited firms (CASE).
What CaseTrust gives you
| Protection | What it means |
|---|---|
| 20% deposit cap | The initial deposit can't be more than 20% of the total cost |
| Deposit performance bond | Your deposit is protected against the firm's closure, winding up, liquidation or non-performance |
| Standard renovation contract | Transparent price breakdown, written agreement on cost variations, and milestone-based progress payments |
| 12-month workmanship warranty | Defects arising within 12 months of completion must be fixed |
| Dispute resolution | Mediation through CASE if you can't settle a disagreement with the firm |
| Prepayment protection | Helps you recover unused prepayments if the business closes |
What it doesn't do
- It doesn't guarantee good design or great workmanship
- It doesn't check that the quote suits your budget or home
- It doesn't replace your own checks on portfolio, references and the contract
- Protection depends on the firm actually being accredited when you sign
Use CaseTrust as a strong starting filter, not the finish line.
How to check a firm
- Search the firm on CASE's list of CaseTrust-accredited businesses
- Check that the company name and UEN match your contract exactly
- Ask for the CaseTrust standard contract
- Check the accreditation is current on the day you sign
Next: 6 checks before you pay anything.
Get the free Before You Sign checklist: every check from our guides on 2 printable pages.Download PDF ↓