Haggling prices and chasing debts - tradespeople hit with cost of living headache

A majority of tradespeople in the UK are facing a surge in late payments, with over half reporting an increase from a year ago, according to a new survey [1]. The financial strain is forcing many to write off significant debts. The survey by Direct Line Group found 53% of tradespeople have seen more late payments compared to last year, with 68% actively chasing money owed [1]. On average, each tradesperson is owed £2,023 in late payments [1]. More than four in 10 (42%) have been forced to write off debts over £500 from invoices that were never paid, with the average amount written off being £1,646 [1]. A fifth have abandoned chasing invoices exceeding £1,000 [1]. To cope, many are now taking protective steps like requesting proof of funds before starting a job or taking deposits [1]. Angela Jeffery, an office manager for West Wales Electrical Solutions, said she spends considerable time chasing debts and arranging payment plans, and has taken customers to small claims court [1]. "We are reasonable with the genuine people really struggling," she said [1]. Haggling has also become commonplace, with Dom Meletti of DLM Tree Services noting customers question his fixed prices daily, though his firm does not reduce them [1]. "When people try to haggle the price it doesn't feel great but on the other hand... I understand things are expensive," he said [1]. Direct Line's Mark Summerville said late payments are often cited as the biggest problem, creating a "deeply demoralising" and financially damaging situation [1]. Not all experiences are negative; plumber Gavin Shopland described his loyal, repeat customers as "good as gold" for paying quickly [1]. "I think the reason my customers are really good at paying quickly is because they are loyal," he said [1].