Tipping the Carpet Cleaners?

[CuriousG]

Should I tip the people coming to clean the carpet in my apartment? The company that is doing it is a small business run by the husband of a coworker and employs another coworker. I don't want to stiff them if it is expected and I don't want to make the ordeal awkward considering the situation.

Also, are their any general gratuity rules regarding poor college students like myself? I always tip at restaurants, bars, and hair salons, but money is usually tight for students. Are their instances when gratuity is not expected since the consumer is a student. I'm not trying to get out of tipping, I'm just curious as to custom.

[jamesglewisf]

Great questions.

I don't think you need to tip the carpet cleaners.

The rules for gratuity are not dependant upon your income. Gratuity, like tax, should be taken into consideration when you are evaluating the price of a product or service. If you can't afford it, then consider the necessity of the service or whether you should have it less often.

Oftentimes, the people performing the service, like waiting a table, are college students or lower income themselves. The way they earn their income is through the tips. Having them perform the service and then paying them (through the tip) a low amount is not very fair.

[CuriousG]

Thank-you for the information!

[jamesglewisf]

Your welcome.