Pool Contractor Question- - Any Advice Appreciated

[patrickphimr]

@MikeyC
Hello. just wrapping up my 16x30 vinyl pool build and surrounding landscaping (interlock) and the total is ringing up at almost $100k in Toronto (def paid the COVID premium). It’s been roughly 3 wks with 2 main guys and a helper. I know the answer varies by person and job, but do you tip, and if so is there a rule of thumb for pool builds at this price? %? I’ve spent about $4-500 on their lunches/dinners/beers already but that was expected. Thanks for the help.

 

[Dirk]

Different countries have different tipping policies. Here in the US we don't tip contractors, and contractors don't expect to be tipped. Providing them with drinks and meals is good practice, which might influence the quality of the work, but even that is not expected. The "COVID premium," otherwise known as price gouging, is tip enough, though I doubt a dime of that profit will go to the workers. That's just the nature of the industry.

Someone from the UK will have to weigh in on the expectations there, but I doubt it's any different for pool construction.

 

[.ben]

Agree with Dirk above.

Also - For concrete pools, each component of the pool is built by a separate crew (sub-contractor) with a Project Manager who oversees the project and owns/is employed by the Pool Builder (contractor).

We provided a steady stream of cold drinks and packaged snacks for whatever crew was on-site in any particular day.

Our 2-man tile crew performed work above expectations, and we gifted them a Christmas card with $50-$100 each. The tile crew was on site more than anyone else. Many sub-contractors are on site for only a day or two. None of them were "tipped".

It would be unusual to tip the Project Manager (contractor). Although I suppose a small gift may be warranted, particularly if they are an employee of the builder (not the owner).

 

[MAPR-Austin]

Our crews are occasionally tipped/supplied with snacks and drinks. I think the best move is tipping them early on. I don't think it makes them perform their jobs 'better', but they are probably a lot more likely to accommodate special requests, answer questions thoughtfully, and go the extra mile when they might not otherwise.

When a homeowner brings out coffee and some kind of home made cake/cookies, everyone notices and appreciates it.