Michael arrived late and, early on, attempted to manipulate me into registering his van — not a great start.
We had agreed a fee of €200 in advance, which was already higher than other quotes I received, but I accepted it because he was available the next day and I was concerned about a leak affecting the apartment below mine.
The job involved two toilets. The first, in the ensuite, he determined needed a new seat — straightforward advice given in a few minutes. The second required a replacement cistern part. The local hardware store was about to close, so I offered him a lift to get there in time as he said he wasn't sure of his bearings. After a detour, we got the part, which I paid for, and he fitted it in a few minutes.
I offered him a coffee and apple tart, which he accepted, and we had a pleasant chat. Then, as he was leaving, he asked for €250.
I had no problem paying the agreed €200 — a deal is a deal, even though the work turned out to be minimal. But he was in no way justified in asking for more, least of all after I had driven him to get the part, paid for it myself, and shown him hospitality. He also only accepts cash, which he didn't tell me in advance and meant an additional trip to the bank for me.
I would not hire Michael again. He mistakes kindness for weakness.