Overheard a client in Phoenix say they'd pay double for a contractor who texts updates

It was during a coffee run, and the guy was complaining about radio silence after a deposit. Makes me think a quick daily photo could be worth more than the actual bid. Anyone else charging extra for that kind of communication?

3 comments

3 Comments

perez.barbara2mo agoMost Upvoted

Charging extra for basic updates feels like a money grab. Good communication should be part of the service you already sold. If you need more money to send a text, maybe the original bid was too low.

paige_martin2mo ago

Actually used to see it the same way, like Jason112 said, that updates should just be included. But after running a small crew for a few years, my view changed. Constant calls and texts for tiny updates can eat up a full hour a day, easy. That's time not spent on the actual work. So now I get why some folks might add a small fee for a formal update plan. It's not about the single text, it's about setting clear limits so the job stays on track and on budget.

jason1122mo ago

Totally agree that it's a money grab! "Good communication should be part of the service" is exactly right. I had a painter ghost me for a week last year and it drove me crazy. The peace of mind from a simple text is huge, and it builds trust for the next job. Trying to charge extra for that basic courtesy just wrecks your reputation.