Quick tipping etiquette

LSU628

There is a couple here installing our new vanities and countertops in 2 bathrooms. They got here around 10:30 and it is 6 and they are still working. What would be the appropriate amount to tip them? They also took out our old vanities before installing the new ones.

lshoes32

I probably would have bought them lunch, and nothing else. Are they independent, or working for someone else?

Luvmy2sons

lshoes32:

I probably would have bought them lunch, and nothing else. Are they independent, or working for someone else?

This. Or i'd throw them $25 to get dinner when they leave. That's if they're independent though. Unless they went above and beyond.

vjcjenn1

assuming you paid for the service, I don't think you need to tip

LSU628

They work for someone else. I've given them drinks thoughout the day. Wish I would have thought of lunch!

~NB~

Nothing. You don't tip them.

kcpokergal

No tip. You paid for this service and employees of this type or pretty much always paid more than a living wage.  

jacksjerseygirl

I typically do not tip for such services. Just as I would not tip the person at the grocery store ringing up/bagging my groceries, the electrician who installs a new fixture or outlet, the plumber who fixes my toilet, the company paid to lay carpet or flooring etc. 

It is a really hard line between what to tip for and not - perhaps it isn't always consistent or fair. There are certain industries that 'live for' the tips such as servers, hair dressers, and the such. There are certain industries where services include an on-going relationship such as house cleaners, delivery persons, lawn care persons where a yearly tip is more customary. But laborers like cabinet installers or electricians or plumbers just don't fall into either of those groups for me.