You set a minimum charge for a reason. But the customer who wants one corner cap put back for $40 is still a customer. Next year they might need a whole wall, or their neighbor will.
Here's how to say no without saying goodbye.
Say it kindly, and fast
Don't leave them hanging for days. A quick, friendly no is better than a maybe that never turns into anything.
> "Thanks for calling me. For a repair that small, my minimum is $___, which I know is more than the fix looks like it should cost. Most of that is the trip and the setup. If you'd like, I can look at the rest of the house while I'm there, so you get more for the visit."
Offer something
- Bundle it. "If there's anything else on the outside you've been meaning to get to, I'll quote it all at once."
- Wait for the route. "I'll be in your area in two weeks. If you can wait, I'll knock some off the minimum since I'm already nearby." Only offer this if you'll really be there.
- Tell them how to hold it until then. A loose panel can sometimes be snapped back into its lock without tools. Tell them how, and tell them to call if it pops out again.
Point them to someone, if you can
If it's really a 10-minute fix, suggest a handyman. That's not losing a job. It's earning trust. People remember the contractor who was honest with them.
Keep them on your list
Save their name, address and what they called about. In the spring, send a short note: "Still have that corner cap? I'm in your neighborhood next week." Some will say yes.
What not to do
- Don't take the small job at a loss and then rush it. A bad repair has your name on it.
- Don't pretend you're booked up for months. Just be honest about the minimum.
- Don't argue about whether it's fair. Explain once, then let them decide.
Inside Siding Pro Academy, members share the wording they use to turn down small jobs and still get the call-back.
