Do You Tip Tradesmen?

My parents are in the construction industry. In fact we've (I work in the business office) been in business for 26 years. It's not standard to tip a tradesperson, the good ones don't expect it (I say the good ones because we've had some wingdingers over the years who have expected all sorts of things) and their work is something they take pride in.

That being said, if they aren't working for an employer who prohibits accepting tips, if you are truly happy with the work, a tip is a great way to say an extra thank you. Make sure though, that you're happy with the work. It's not like in a restaurant where tipping is the norm and often we tip out of feeling like it's required rather than a job well done.

Also, keep in mind that another great way to compliment or thank a tradesperson you're happy with is to promote their business. If he does a great job and you're happy, tell him so and then ask for business cards you can keep to pass along to any friends who may need work done. That's the best tip you can give because you're ultimately putting money in their pocket with new business!

My husband is an electrician. He does side work a lot. He does not expect to be tipped for the work he does. He is pocketing the money he makes. Now that being said he has received tips before. But they are usually for something extra he has done for the person. Not a regular electrical job. For instance he did an electrical job and as he was leaving he tried to latch the front screen door. It wouldn't latch. The lady said "oh my son keeps saying he will fix it but never does" my husband took about an hour and fixed it and wouldn't take his hourly rate which the lady kept trying to give him. She said well then here is a $20 tip. He finally said yes so he could leave lol. but he does a lot of little things for elderly people and they will give him a $5 and he takes it because it makes them feel good.

They are not allowed to take tips.

If they do an ok job and feel you paid a high amount then no. If you know you are getting a great deal on the work and they do a great job then I would. We've paid a couple hundred extra for things like painting the exterior, and when we redid our planter areas in our front yard. He charged us very little for the number of guys and hours they worked. We ended up planting and replanting almost 40 plants in the front and back yards and they layed mulch/bark in both.

They don't expect tips, just the amount they quoted you so you don't need to. It is nice to make someones day when you can and they've done a great job.

I would not, but if he does a great job I would (unsolicited) write a nice letter of recommendation that he can use with future clients. I have done that for guys who have done good work and it was really appreciated.

Generally not, they are being paid by the hour or as part of a quoted job.