What is a Staircase Installer?

A Staircase Installer is a skilled trade who manufactures and installs your internal staircase. Whether it’s timber, steel, glass, or a combination, they ensure your stair structure is safe, compliant, and aligned with your design intent.

What does a Staircase Installer do?

Your Staircase Installer will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Staircase Installer will:

  • Conduct a Check Measure once framing and floor levels are complete
  • Confirm stair dimensions and ensure compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA)
  • Fabricate treads, risers, stringers, balustrades, and handrails
  • Supply and install the stair structure (often in two stages: structure, then balustrade)
  • Provide final detailing and make any adjustments for a clean, safe finish


They often work around plastering, flooring, and painting trades, so coordination is key.

Barry's Toolbox

Your stair installer will need accurate floor heights and wall positions — don’t skip the check measure or assume standard sizing. Custom stairs are one of the most expensive items to redo.

What Makes a Good Staircase Installer?

Look for someone who:

  • Are experienced with residential builds and internal staircases
  • Can design to suit both modern and traditional finishes
  • Provide fully documented shop drawings for review
  • Use durable materials and offer finish options (e.g. stain, paint, powdercoat)
  • Coordinate well with framers, plasterers, and flooring trades

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Staircase Installers, you’ll need:

  • Floor plans, sections, and elevation drawings showing stair layout
  • Final floor-to-floor height (post-framing)
  • Selections for tread material, balustrade style, and handrail finish
  • Site access and install timing relative to internal works

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should staircases be installed?

    Generally after internal linings and before flooring. Some stair structures may go in earlier depending on access needs — your installer will advise.

  • Can staircases be pre-made?

    Yes, but only after a check measure confirms dimensions. Most staircases are custom-built to ensure compliance and perfect fit.

  • Do staircases need to comply with regulations?

    Absolutely. Tread depth, riser height, and handrail placement must meet NCC/BCA rules. Your installer must be up to date with these standards.



How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.