How to get a quote from workmen

Thanks NS. Never thought of that tack. Makes a lot of sense. Will give it a try if (when!) this occurs again. 👍

I have found that if I phone a tradesman and put on my best ‘helpless woman’ voice it works far better than if my husband phones them.

If we need anything done we always tend to go with recommendations and tend to keep to the same trusted electrician builder etc etc

When we needed a new boiler and were new to the area, we contacted three firms, all advertising in the local booklet. All three responded to my calls. One agreed to come but did not turn up, another came to look but did not quote, or respond to reminders. The third came, quoted , got the job and put us in touch with tradesmen for other jobs. He was a lifeline, a great worker at reasonable prices and so cheerful. Sadly he died suddenly and we felt we had lost a friend. His one- time apprentice then partner has carried on and is so reliable.

As for other trades, it is the same old story mostly. Recently I got three tree surgeons to quote. One seemed too elderly to be safe, another priced the job too high, I accepted the third at half that price but still have not got a firm date.