Plasterer Job Guide

Find a Plasterer for Ceiling Plaster Repair

Repairs range from small patching to full re-skims or temporary make-safe fixes, with area, substrate and finish quality driving the scope.

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2,048 local providers4.8 avg ratingTypical duration: 6-22 hours

What we'll ask you

4 quick questions for your estimate

Answer these and we’ll generate a personalised range in seconds before you post your job.

Pricing guide

The cost of ceiling repair is driven mainly by the size of the area and the finish required. Small, localised patches that only need setup, patching and sanding are typically less complex than room-scale re-skims or sheet replacement, which often require multiple coats, drying time and extra protection or equipment; hidden substrate damage or hazardous materials can significantly increase the scope and may need separate specialist work. Callout fees, hourly labour and any after-hours attendance will usually be applied to the final quote.

  • Repair area and size

    Larger areas or whole-room re-skims generally require more coats, labour and drying time than small patches.

  • Number and distribution of patches

    Many discrete or widely scattered patches usually take longer than a cluster of repairs in one spot due to added setup and feathering.

  • Substrate condition and hazards

    Unstable substrate, hidden damage or hazardous materials like asbestos often need stabilisation or specialist removal, increasing scope.

  • Finish quality required

    Make-safe or temporary repairs typically focus on stabilisation and are not paint-ready, while full re-skims aim for a higher-quality finish and may exclude painting unless requested.

  • Access, equipment and timing

    Needs such as scaffold, multi-day scheduling, additional crew or after-hours attendance can increase complexity and likely affect the final quote.

Ceiling Plaster Repair

Estimated range

$766 – $2,629

Default scope: 3 rooms or areas

What moves this estimate

  • Repair area and size: Larger areas or whole-room re-skims generally require more coats, labour and drying time than small patches.
  • Number and distribution of patches: Many discrete or widely scattered patches usually take longer than a cluster of repairs in one spot due to added setup and feathering.
  • Substrate condition and hazards: Unstable substrate, hidden damage or hazardous materials like asbestos often need stabilisation or specialist removal, increasing scope.
  • Finish quality required: Make-safe or temporary repairs typically focus on stabilisation and are not paint-ready, while full re-skims aim for a higher-quality finish and may exclude painting unless requested.

Local results

Active providers

2,048

Average rating

4.8

  • “Amazing work! Charlie and Mac were fantastic. Skilled craftsmen, great communicators, punctual and very polite. So happy with the work they did in two days, highly recommend them…”

    Deb Evans

  • “John was the best! I thought I was just getting a plasterer, but instead got a coordinated team who transformed my living room into a truly beautiful space. Check out the before a…”

    Fiona Upward

  • “Sami and his team were amazing. We had a ceiling collapse in our living area and kitchen and they came to our rescue. They helped us through a very difficult time. They also fixed…”

    Michelle Drew

How it works

  1. 1

    Describe your job

    We ask targeted questions to scope your exact job.

  2. 2

    Get matched

    We match you with local providers for this job type.

  3. 3

    Compare and book

    Review quotes and choose the provider that fits.

Frequently asked questions

Do plasterers need to be registered?
This trade typically requires a registered plasterer to carry out ceiling repairs. You should usually ask for evidence of registration before work begins, as registration is commonly required for compliance.
Will the repair be paint-ready?
Small patch repairs typically include patching, sanding and basic blending but usually exclude painting. Full re-skims may be prepared for painting, though painting is often quoted and scheduled separately.
How long will the repair take?
Small, localised patches are often completed within a few hours, while room-scale re-skims usually need multiple coats and drying time and may be scheduled over several days. Urgent make-safe work is typically quicker but may require a follow-up permanent repair.
What happens if hidden damage is found?
If hidden substrate damage or hazardous materials are discovered, the job scope will usually increase and may require specialist trades. Plasterers will typically pause and provide a revised scope before continuing.
How accurate is the instant estimate?
Our estimates are built from research across thousands of local jobs and real pricing data. Use them as a guide when speaking to plasterers — your actual quote will depend on your specific job.
How many quotes will I get?
We'll match you with up to 3 plasterers initially. If you'd like more options, you can request additional matches.
Do I pay anything to get quotes?
No — the service is 100% free for homeowners.
Why do you need photos?
Clear photos cut surprises and price blowouts, saving you money.

Popular Services

Other common plasterer jobs

See ballpark pricing for popular plasterer jobs before you speak to a tradie.

Patch holes and cracks

$230 – $530

New Plaster Lining

$1,913 – $6,970

Replace Plasterboard

$1,256 – $4,028

Cornice install or repair

$461 – $2,562

Plasterer General Help

$275 – $765

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