AIBU to think it's normal and polite to offer servicemen a drink?

[NeedACleverNN]

We had the gas man round yesterday to do a boiler check. I offered him a drink and he gratefully accepted a coffee.

Dh saw the cup on the drying rack and asked if had guests round. Told him no it was the gasman and he looked confused.

I've always thought you offer them a drink. He thinks they are there to do a job and that drinks are not part of it

Yes? No?

Yes, of course!

Windowcleaner gets his tea (1sugar) with selection of biscuits.

Builders had trays with stuff on to make their own whenever they wanted. Always offered when I was making one for myself. Even when kettle was in little outhouse as rest of house full of dust! Their boss, who has since become a good friend, always gets brownies when he comes around. Very sad if I haven't made new batch! Gave him a box full when he'd been away on hols and came round to say hi on his return.

Offered to workmen working on gas outside the house when it was obvious they were going to be there for a few days. Why not?

Cel and apple I really don't know, I'm just following 'the rules' as they were taught to me. It wouldn't really be the done thing to have a cup of tea 'on the go' it would be expected that you both sit down at the kitchen table to drink it. And it's always noticed when someone doesn't actually drink their tea. SIL is considered to be very ill mannered because she pours tea then doesn't drink it. Everyone hates having to clear away a half drunk mug of cold tea. I can't explain these things, they are just 'the norm' to me.

Sorry treacle, I wasn't having a go at you - there may be culture-specific customs that I'm not aware of. At the same time, unless all your tradesmen are from the same background, I wouldn't assume that they would find it rude to be offered tea or coffee - they're much more likely to just appreciate the kindness.

I know you weren't having a go

Yes totally normal. We're having our bathroom done at present and I've left mugs and tea/coffee milk for the guys. They've been really good. If it wasn't for the work actually getting done and them washing up cups you wouldn't know they'd been in. So. Tidy!