Internet installers are a necessary evil. They come in, set up your internet, and leave you to your own devices.
They make it possible for you to watch the latest episode of House of Cards on Netflix or binge-watch Game of Thrones on HBO Go.
But should they get tipped?
Many people think not, but if we’re being honest, they probably should.
It’s not an easy job to be an internet installer.
You have to lug all of that equipment around, set it up and then leave.
Sometimes, you even have to deal with disgruntled customers who are angry because their internet isn’t working properly.
In most cases, the installer is just doing their job.
Do you tip internet installers?
No, you don’t have to tip them, but it is a nice thing to do.
If the installer has to work particularly hard or goes above and beyond, a tip of $10-$20 is appropriate.
An example would be if your internet installer has to set up your internet in a difficult location, like a basement or outside while the weather is bad.
A big thank you is all they need, but if you feel compelled to give them a tip, that’s always appreciated.
Another thing you could do is take a few minutes to leave a review on Yelp or Google about your experience with the installer.
This will help other people who might need to use the same installer in the future.
Company policy
Some companies like Spectrum have a policy against tipping their installers, so it’s best to check with your company before you try to tip them.
Most installers won’t expect a tip, but it’s always nice to show your appreciation for a job well done.
How to tip your installer
If you’re going to tip money then cash is always best. If you’re going to tip with a gift card, make sure it’s one that the installer can use.
Some good options include Home Depot, Lowe’s, Starbucks, or Target.
When they are done with their job you will usually have to sign the paperwork.
Right below your signature, you will see a space for “comments.”
This is a good place to put a note about the tip.
For example, “Thank you for your hard work! I left a $20 tip in the envelope.”
If you’re using cash, you can put the money in an envelope and attach a note.
If you’re using a gift card, you can just put the gift card in an envelope with a note.
either way, it’s best to hand the envelope directly to the installer.
Thank them for their hard work and let them know that their tip is waiting for them.
If you don’t have extra money for a tip
Do not worry, they aren’t expecting a tip even if they had to climb a pole outside in 30 below snow.
However, the best thing you can do is just let them know how much they are appreciated and leave a review on their behalf.
You can offer them something to drink, like hot coffee or a cold soda.
Small gestures like these mean the world to them.
Do internet installers make good money?
The average wage for an internet installer is $15 per hour.
This can vary depending on the company you work for and your experience.
Tipping them will not make or break their financial situation, but it is a nice gesture.
In most cases, the installer is just doing their job.
Will tipping your installer get you a discount
Probably not.
This is a myth and there are probably zero chances your installer can do any sort of magic hook up without their boss noticing.
That could result in them being terminated.
So, don’t ask and don’t expect.
Conclusion
You do not have to tip the person installing internet service in your home, but if you’d like to, a cash tip of $10-$20 is appropriate.
You could also leave a review on the installer’s behalf.
Thank them for their hard work!
Do you have to tip the person installing internet service in your home? The answer is no, but if you
