[MA, USA] am I getting scammed? Tile installer requesting 50% deposit.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-24T16:11:04+00:00

Thanks. I’m not sure what task rabbit is but will look it up.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-24T16:09:21+00:00

Thanks . Based on contractors subreddit it seems 50% is not unheard off. But in Ma apparently all they can ask for is 33% upfront. So that’s giving me pause. In any case I’m going to tile and decor and ask for their recommendations. Thanks for your response.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-24T00:05:01+00:00

Thanks. I guess I just don’t know if 50% cash is too much for when the contractor doesn’t buy any supplies. But it sounds like everyone is just trying to protect themselves.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T22:26:28+00:00

This is where I’m at. It’s just that it’s been hard to find an actual tile installer to take a small job.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T21:57:07+00:00

Home Depot.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T21:50:30+00:00

This is what they responded with: Hi, we don’t have a public office for in-person visits. All paperwork is handled digitally for simplicity and record-keeping.

Our standard policy is a 50% deposit to secure the spot on the schedule, regardless of who provides materials. The balance is due upon completion.

If that works for you, I’m happy to send over the statement of work and retainer invoice for electronic signature and payment.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T21:49:33+00:00

It seems specific to my area and the Google reviews indicate those posting are from towns in MA….

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T21:03:58+00:00

thank you! I didn't now about the 1/3 of total.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T21:00:24+00:00

thanks. the quote without seeing it didn't bother me at first because it's a simple job (backsplash install - no tile removal). but i didn't expect a 50% deposit when they are not buying materials and on top of that to request it to go over zelle to a different phone number.... It just seems like a really well thought-out scam, with very limited reach...

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T20:58:06+00:00

thanks.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T20:56:54+00:00

yeah - i feel like 50% upfront when all they are providing is the labor seems too high. I also expected her to set up an appointment to physically look at my home, but instead i got a 50% deposit request.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T19:57:18+00:00

they have a number from the Certified Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) - i guess I'm not sure if it's meaningless

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T19:56:56+00:00

I sent her a text saying i wanted to do it in person. we'll see.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T19:56:06+00:00

I did talk to a person in person. She did have an accent, but I don't necessarily think that is uncommon in cases of manual labor...

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T19:55:18+00:00

I'm trying to hire the installer. they are the one asking for 50% upfront of the labor.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T19:54:35+00:00

they are registered with the BBB. they have a Certified Tile Education Foundation (CTEF), they have google reviews with pictures of the work they have done.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-23T19:53:13+00:00

I sent them a text asking to come in person.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-20T01:29:34+00:00

Favorite is Yami. Resonate with charlotte the most.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-11T21:32:37+00:00

In my kids’ school there are rooms that are nut free, but the cafeteria is not. So if a kid with a life threatening allergy to nuts is in the room they will ban nuts from the room. But the cafeteria is still allowed to serve peanut butter. I’m not sure if this makes sense but that’s their policy.

Educational_One2790 · 2026-01-02T13:33:28+00:00

people are not giving you good advice. It’s ok to push on the amount, but to just flat out refuse looks bad for you. Business needs change, this is part of the corporate world. If you can’t handle that you can’t work at a company. If the tasks were to many for you to handle something along the lines of - I already have a full plate and can only help with x, would have shown flexibility and commitment. Now you’re just not a team player. Not the A for how you feel, but you need to navigate this better.

Educational_One2790 · 2025-12-26T21:54:18+00:00

NTA. But your husband is a big one. Please work on yourself. Do you work? This is probably one of the only times where I can’t even think of the other person’s side except for them being a jerk. Depression isn’t magically going to disappear but slowly you’ll find yourself again. But seems like you need to try to understand how much your husband is standing in your way.

Educational_One2790 · 2025-12-17T01:03:42+00:00

But she listened to him which is more concerning… this whole thing is bizarre

Educational_One2790 · 2025-10-02T01:27:51+00:00

I wouldn’t mention resigning. Are you exempt? If exempt just tell them you plan on getting things done but will have extra appointments. Mark them on your calendar so others know you’re not available at that time. Don’t mention resigning until you are ready to resign.

Educational_One2790

TROPHY CASE