Adelaide pergola scams follow the same pattern as roofing scams. Here's how to spot them before signing.
Red flag 1: door-knockers and 'show home' offers
"We have a show home in your area, normally $24,000 but if you sign by Friday we'll do it for $14,500" - this is the inflated-discount sales script. The real price was $14,500 the whole time. Decline politely and get 2 independent quotes.
Red flag 2: no BLD licence number on the quote
SA Building Work Contractors Act requires a licensed builder for any work over $20,000 inc GST (the threshold increased from $12,000 on 10 November 2025). The licence number (BLD-XXXXXX) should be on the quote and verifiable on the CBS Public Register. No number, no signing.
Red flag 3: no mention of Builders Indemnity Insurance
BII is mandatory in SA for residential building work over $20,000 inc GST. The certificate must be provided before any deposit or work starts. If the builder doesn't mention it, walk away.
Red flag 4: no engineered footings
Adelaide reactive clay can move 30-50mm per season. Standard 300mm concrete pads usually fail within 5 years. Reputable quotes specify engineered footings sized for the site.