Tipping Your NYC Super: A Guide to Not Ending Up in the Renters' Shame Hall of Fame
Ah, the age-old question that plagues New Yorkers even more than the existential dread of another bodega breakfast sandwich: how much do I tip my super? Fear not, fellow residents, for I, your friendly neighborhood oracle (with slightly above average Google-fu skills), am here to crack the code.
The Great Super Tipping Debate: Dollars vs. Donuts?
First, let's dispel the myth that a dozen stale donuts is an acceptable form of tipping. Unless your super secretly runs a bakery by moonlight, this is a recipe for a frosty reception (and possibly a health code violation). Think of it this way: would you want your plumber paid in bagels? Didn't think so. Cash is king (or queen) in the super tipping world.
The Super Tipping Spectrum: From Scrooge to Santa
Now, onto the nitty-gritty: the amount. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, because let's face it, supers are a unique bunch. They can be your building's guardian angel, fixing leaky faucets faster than you can say "superhero," or the elusive Phantom of the Pipes, only emerging from the basement depths when absolutely necessary.
Here's a handy guide to navigate the Super Tipping Spectrum:
- Scrooge McSuper (The Bare Minimum): For the super who simply fulfills their basic duties and maintains a healthy skepticism towards glitter bombs, a $20-$50 holiday tip might suffice.
- The Helpful Handyman (The Consistent Caregiver): This super goes above and beyond, remembers your birthday (or at least pretends to), and even helps you wrestle that rogue Ikea bookshelf into submission. $75-$150 during the holidays shows your appreciation.
- The Miracle Worker (The Apartment Avenger): They battle bedbugs like they're Bruce Willis, unclog drains with the finesse of a magician, and can somehow find a misplaced package faster than a bloodhound on a steak scent. $150 and upwards is a sign of your undying gratitude (and a potential hedge for future apartment emergencies).
Remember: These are just guidelines. Factor in the size of your building, the level of service you receive, and your own financial situation.
Bonus Tip: The Art of the Non-Monetary Appreciation
While a holiday tip is customary, showing appreciation throughout the year goes a long way. A thoughtful thank you note after they fix something major, or offering them a cold beverage on a sweltering summer day, shows you recognize their efforts.
By following these tips, you'll avoid the dreaded Renters' Shame Hall of Fame and ensure your super continues to see you as a model tenant (not the one who hoards empty pizza boxes). Now go forth and tip with confidence, my friend!
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