... to expect my builder to have done more than precisely 1 HOUR's work today?

[ChardonnayGirl2]

Having the drive and garden re done. Builder turns up at 8.45am, does approx 40 mins work. Sits in his van for 10 mins, goes off to get 'supplies'.

Comes back, works for another 20 mins, then goes off to order more 'supplies', and that is the last I have seen of him today

Phone going straight to answerphone, left message asking him to call me, so far, no return call.....

Is this normal for builders? AIBU to expect some communication as the paying customer?

Have you agreed a set rate for the whole job. If so, that is a good thing I suppose as he wopn't be charging you for all the half days as whole days, but then again, he is probably running 3 or 4 other jobs alongside.

Sounds pretty typical - I assume you aren't paying him per day?

Sometimes it is hard to get supplies and suppliers mess you around. Just because he's not on site doesn't mean he isn't working. He might be skiving or working for someone else, but he might not. Best way to avoid problems is to make sure you pay for the job and not the time and to only pay the last instalment of cash on completion.