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The Kitchen Table

I Need Help...Another Tipping Question

12 years ago

My handyman and his son have been doing a number of maintenance projects around my house. Today, they helped me move the contents of a storage unit to my basement which meant about 25 trips up and down two sets of stairs. It took about 2 hours. It was hot and humid, so it was very sweaty work. Since I pay them hourly, they would normally earn about $150 for the time spent, but I feel like I should give them a bonus because it was really hard work.

Please give me your opinion about whether the work merits a bonus and if so, how much extra would you pay them. I respect all of your opinions and really appreciate you being my sounding board for these sorts of questions.

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Comments (8)

airforceguy
12 years ago
So each made about $37 an hour? that is very good pay for manual labor work...they should be thanking you!!! Many people with high degrees and expensive student loans don't make that,lol
marie_ndcal
12 years ago
Do they work for you on a regular basis? Did you discuss an amount ahead of time? For 2 hours of work for two people I see no problem. Maybe a gift card to each?
Was 150.00 what you paid them ?
Sometimes when we use certain people all the time, and then start giving bonuses, they might not do as much or as quick as they should. I would say, if these are your regularly handymen, no bonus,.
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oldfixer
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$75 each is more than ample for 2 hr work. Would you pay them a rainy bonus? Or a chilly bonus? Why didn't you set out a pitcher of ice cold kool aid, or beer?
Fun2BHere
Original Author
12 years ago
Added information:
The father charges $45/hour and the son charges $16/hour. The father is in the process of doing lots of work for me. The son is just helping temporarily as he is not taking any college classes this summer. I pay them at the end of the week for their total hours worked that week.
wanda_va
12 years ago
I would give them each an extra $20. In this area, the level of service and responsiveness is in direct proportion to the tipping! Our regular plumber, carpenter, repairman, and HVAC man are almost always to our house the same day.
sleeperblues
12 years ago
I agree with Wanda.
ruthieg__tx
12 years ago
I agree give them the $20 extra each ....if nothing else it will put you at the top of their list and show the Handyman that you appreciate his work...
Fun2BHere
Original Author
12 years ago
Again, thank you to those who took the time to post. Your thoughts are very helpful.

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