To think that if you are a tradesperson...

[paintedfences]

...you should:

a) Show up when you say you will
b) Do what you said you would
c) In the time-frame agreed
c) For the agreed-upon price (or if this isn't possible, flagging it and the problem and renegotiating)

EIGHT different people for a load of different jobs (renovating flat). ONE of those eight has been a star. The rest? May a seagull divebomb them every day for a week.

Yes once you find the shining star of the building world it's pure heaven.

If only some would just ring/text if they couldn't make it!! Why is that so hard for some. And you wait in and no show

If you find a good contractor you must always look after them. Pay them promptly, offer them refreshments every now and then etc.

I use the same builder / plumber / sparky / mechanic etc whenever I need anything doing. Due to the nature of my business they all get a steady stream of work from me, they know I'll pay up promptly and the won't have to chase me etc. As a result they usually clear the decks and put me to the top of the list when I phone them asking them to do something for me.

Worth their weight in gold.