Forum
« GE 30 Gas Stove for Sale Crown Heights North House Tour 2008 »
July 16, 2008
Tipping Contractors?
Contractors are working on our kitchen. This is my first experience doing a project like this at my home. These guys are doing an okay job. Not perfect, above-and-beyond, but pretty good. They show up every day, work, and go home. Don't think that you can ask for more than that. There's a little bit of an "internal disagreement" about whether or not we want to tip these guys. On one hand, we're paying thousands of dollars to their boss. On the other hand, the money goes to the boss, and they get only a cut.
If we just wanted to tip for the karma, how much is appropriate? Would a couple of six packs be an alternative?
Comments
I think that tipping is highly unusual. Beer seems more appropriate, but you should do whatever makes you feel good. The fact that others don't do it should not stop you from being so nice. I like the way you think.
Posted by: superstooper at July 16, 2008 11:58 AM
Lunch would be appropriate (do not serve alcohol unless you're giving it to them at the close of business - it's a safety violation). Another option is a letter to their boss saying how pleased you were with their efforts. The workers don't get a cut, they get and hourly wage. If you sing their praises to the boss (and let them know you're doing so) it gives them leverage to ask for a raise - which has a much greater long term benefit than a quick tip.
Posted by: ignutzz at July 16, 2008 12:07 PM
You don't tip a contractor. You should however provide the workers with a cooler of ice water and glasses. Arizona ice tea and sports drinks are nice too. If you're feeling generous, you can buy them lunch but always ask the contractor first. Frank O'Donnell got a little pissed at me for "spoiling" his guys when I took lunch orders from his crew.
Posted by: Steve at July 16, 2008 12:39 PM
I always keep cold bottled water and tea, coffee, sweets and fruits available for work crews, regardless of whether small or large job. I have been blessed with the most amazing, hard working crews who show up on time and work tirelessly even when weather is miserable or adverse. Depending on the crew, the nature of the work, and the duration of the project, I sometimes cook a family-style lunch or, if clear ethnic food preferences, try to stock items the workers will like or buy lunch they'll enjoy--especially if I notice that otherwise lunch is local junk food or skipped entirely. Tips might or might not be given at end of project, depending on duration and difficulty. My appreciation for work well done is clearly communicated to project manager and bosses, who appreciate that I acknowledge the hard work and craftsmanship.
Posted by: hakonechloa at July 16, 2008 12:56 PM
A nice cup of tea should suffice.
Posted by: James Patience at July 16, 2008 1:48 PM
Tipping isn't unheard of, but I wouldn't tip before the end. Do all the nice things mentioned above.
I ocne brought back a bunch of stuff from a PS 321 bake sale for the crew, which they were pretty happy about. Of course, the contractor wanted to dole them out himself so they would think the goodies came from him. Ahem, So, obviously, there is a benefit to doing nice, relatively cost-free things for the crew (and the contractor, too), and good karma is always good. Plus, you'll benefit from a properly cafeinated crew.
Posted by: slopefarm at July 16, 2008 3:52 PM
I think a gift, meal, etc. are much more appropriate than tips.
You want to express gratitude, respect and humanity. Food and drink does this. A tip in the wrong context, on the other hand, can look like a power play.
Posted by: vanburenproud at July 17, 2008 11:16 AM
Post a comment
Please be patient while your comment is published. It may take a moment.