A Helpful Tip

I was stopped on the street last week and asked the following question: “Mike, should I extend a gratuity to carpet installers?” This triggered memories of the same question being asked in regards to plumbers, carpenters, painters and other contractors who come to your house to do work. In my 15 years of real estate management, as a rule of thumb, the following usually apply:

Contractors who come to your house for a one time project such as carpet installation, window installation, hardwood flooring or appliance delivery, usually do not expect a tip. Some companies forbid their workers from accepting gratuity.

When contractors renovate or do minor electrical, plumbing or painting jobs you do not need to tip them. If the service is outstanding the biggest tip you can provide is positive word of mouth or the referral of a paying customer.

When it comes to service-related contractors that offer repeat services at your house such as cleaners, landscapers, meal preparers and paper deliverers, you may want to give them a bonus at the end of the year. But generally you do not pay a tip at time of service.

By all means, if the service provided by anyone is exemplary, use your best judgement as to what reward is suitable. Sometimes the biggest gratuity extended can be a compliment.