Recent research from MyJobQuote suggests that the trades are inundated with requests to carry out bizarre tasks as a ‘quick favour’.
Hiring a tradesperson seems to give some customers the feeling that they can request additional work to be carried out, over and above what has been agreed and quoted for – and some of the requests are absolutely absurd.
They include:
- Answer the door: Over half of respondents say homeowners wanted them to see who was at the door after a knock.
- Pick up the phone: Not surprisingly, many also report being asked to answer the phone or even to make a phone call on the homeowner’s behalf.
- Play fetch with the dog: While some tradesmen like pets, not all do. However, many have been asked to watch the dogs or play with them.
- Asking for a lower price: Even after signing a contract, some people aren’t shy about asking for a better deal. It doesn’t matter how far along the tradesperson is before they make the request.
- Take out the bins: Clients sometimes treat tradespeople as housekeepers. Asking them to take out the rubbish or sweep the floor is very common.
- Babysit the kids: Perhaps the worst offence is asking a contractor to watch the kids for a few minutes, which almost 10 per cent of tradespeople say has happened on the job.
Have you ever been asked to do something odd like this? Do get in touch with us on email at probuildonline@gmail.com or tag us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.