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Gardener sat on my drive

19 replies

CleverQuacks · 04/06/2019 13:17

So my front garden (a small patch of slate chips and a drive way big enough for two cars) is very overgrown and full of weeds. I decided to get a gardener out to clear the weeds and spread some more slate chips. I posted the job on one of these “trusted trader” sites and a man replied. I sent him pictures of the job and he estimated it would take 3 hours and we agreed a price. All good so far!

He arrived this morning with another man and they began weeding. They have got most of the weeds out now but around 12, I noticed they had seemed to have stopped working. Assumed they were having a lunch break. This was over an hour ago and they are still just sat on my drive way. They have been here over four hours and they haven’t started spreading the slate yet?? They are just sat there. What do i do? I am worried they are going to ask for more money or not finish the job. Should I go and talk to them or continue hiding in the house and peeping through the window? Lol

OP posts:
Walkamileinmyshoesbeforeujudge · 04/06/2019 13:19

Ask them if they have taken root!!

FabulouslyFab · 04/06/2019 13:21

Go and ask them how they are getting on. Be bold!!

Kimchinoodles · 04/06/2019 13:24

Pop out and ask them, hi guys just wanted to see how your getting on as you said 3 hours, are you still on track or...

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CleverQuacks · 04/06/2019 13:24

Ok, I will ask. I HATE this type of thing. Having work men around the house and dealing with confrontation are my two most hated things :(

OP posts:
mindutopia · 04/06/2019 13:25

Surely, if they gave you a quote for the job, then you pay them for what that amount. If they want to take an extra 1.5 hours to sit and have a rest, the quote should stand as you are paying them for the job. I would just make that clear when you speak to them. Surely, if they want to take a rest, then they are entitled to it, but it's not part of their paid time.

Babyduck3 · 04/06/2019 13:25

Sounds like they are trying to pull a fast one, do they know you are in?
Definitely go and ask how they are getting on!

qazxc · 04/06/2019 13:28

Go out and ask how they are getting on.
You've agreed a price, pay him that and no more.

JustHereWithPopcorn · 04/06/2019 13:29

I would hate this situation I feel for you! Act confident and scary if possible don't let them walk over you!

SubisYodrethwhenLarping · 04/06/2019 13:32

How about compliment them on their work so far

Then ask about the slate chips being done

Then a comment about how much you are looking forward to seeing the job done

So it is the sandwich effect - good bad good

mummymayhem18 · 04/06/2019 13:32

How did you get on?

CleverQuacks · 04/06/2019 13:33

Ok I asked. The guy was very smiley and said it’s all fine. They have now got up and are spreading the slate so progress is being made. I will be firm and only pay what we agreed. I have no problem with them taking their time, as long as they don’t demand more money!

OP posts:
Missingstreetlife · 04/06/2019 13:44

Maybe they were waiting for a cup of tea

pigeonscooing · 04/06/2019 13:51

Maybe they were waiting for a cup of tea

^ this

Hortz · 04/06/2019 13:53

I was going to add are you behind with the mugs of tea? Grin

DontCallMeShitley · 04/06/2019 13:55

Not really answering your question but have you had weed blocking sheets put underneath the slate chips? If not the weeds will just come back. Sorry.

I find a cup of tea keeps workmen working. Or a can of Coke.

maggienolia · 04/06/2019 15:32

Are you allowing them to use your toilet?
It's a big discussion point on MN.

OldUnit · 04/06/2019 15:37

They were just having their lunch break. Perhaps they got lost in discussing Trump's State Visit or the The influences of 'drill rap' on young, impressionable minds.

Pay what was quoted. Workmen just love a natter.

Babyduck3 · 04/06/2019 17:21

Did they ask for more money?

mummymayhem18 · 05/06/2019 21:38

@CleverQuacks ,cmon what happened lol?

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