It is usual for quotes for work or confirmation of taking the job to stress that payment is required immediately on the day of the job being finished. It also tends to spell out if perhaps certain amounts are due at start of job or part way through. Cash flow is a big issue for tradesmen having to spend out on expensive materials.
Most will spell out the requirements, but sometimes they don’t and assume you know they need that payment.
Think about it, if they spend hundreds or thousands on materials for you and start a new job on Monday, they need your payment to buy the next lot of stuff.
Customers can be too casual. They think of it as a big business invoicing and perhaps needing payment within 2-3 weeks. They don’t grasp how immediate payment is so important. They need to understand that you check the job, ensure you’re happy with it, flag any problems that need sorting and if there aren’t any, you pay at once. Some people seem to think as a matter of principle they should hold onto their cash for a few days or a week or whatever. Being busy isn’t an excuse. Paying for the service received needs to be a priority and let’s face it, doesn’t take long theses days.
Multiple reminders….this is because the money hasn’t been received. Workmen do find they have customers who don’t pay. It is their constant worry. When you don’t pay on the day, you become more likely to be one of those. No reply or vague suggestions you will pay with a timeframe which isn’t met, or without a timeframe make them anxious. There is no need to do it if you’re happy with the work.
The multiple reminders should make you think they really need that money, not start getting irritated or withhold it longer. Just pay and message them to say it’s happened and you look forward to the receiot.