As a cultural and social norms expert, I specialize in understanding the nuances of tipping practices across various settings, including tipping building staff. It's an important aspect of maintaining good relationships and showing appreciation for the services provided. Here's a detailed analysis of how much you should tip building staff, taking into account the information provided and other factors.

Tipping Supers and Resident Managers:
Supers and resident managers play a crucial role in the daily operations of a building. They are often the first point of contact for residents and are responsible for a wide range of duties, from maintenance to administrative tasks. The suggested average tip for supers and resident managers ranges from $75 to $175, with a broader range of $50 to $500. The amount you choose to tip can depend on several factors:


1. The size of the building: Larger buildings with more residents may warrant a higher tip due to the increased workload.

2. The quality of service: If the super or resident manager has been particularly helpful or responsive, you might consider tipping on the higher end of the scale.

3. Your personal financial situation: It's important to tip within your means and not to overextend yourself financially.

Tipping Doormen and Concierges:
Doormen and concierges provide a valuable service by ensuring the security and comfort of the building's residents. They often assist with deliveries, hail taxis, and provide general assistance. The average tip for doormen and concierges is between $25 and $150, with a broader range of $10 to $1,000. Here are some considerations for tipping doormen and concierges:


1. Frequency of interaction: If you interact with the doorman or concierge frequently, you may choose to tip more generously.

2. The level of service: Consider how helpful and accommodating they have been throughout the year.

3. Your relationship with them: If you have a friendly rapport with the doorman or concierge, you might feel inclined to tip more.

**Tipping Porters, Handymen, and Maintenance Staff:**
Porters, handymen, and maintenance staff are essential for the upkeep of the building and for addressing any issues that arise. They often work behind the scenes but their contributions are vital. The average tip for these staff members is $20 to $30, with a broader range of $10 to $75. Factors to consider when tipping these individuals include:


1. The nature of their work: If they have performed tasks that were particularly time-consuming or difficult, a higher tip may be appropriate.

2. Consistency of service: If they have been consistently reliable and efficient, this should be reflected in your tip.

3. Any extra help: If they have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help you, this is a good reason to tip more generously.

Additional Considerations:
- Holidays and special occasions: Tipping is often done during the holiday season, but it can also be appropriate to show appreciation at other times of the year.
- Personal circumstances: If you are moving into or out of a building, it might be customary to tip the staff for their assistance during the move.
- Cultural norms: While tipping is common in some cultures, it may not be expected or customary in others. It's important to be aware of and respect these differences.

In conclusion, tipping building staff is a personal decision that should be based on the quality of service, the frequency of interaction, and your personal financial situation. It's a way to show gratitude and maintain good relationships with those who help make your living environment comfortable and secure.

read more >>

Here's a basic guideline per Brick Underground: Super, resident manager: $75-$175 on average (broad range: $50-$500) Doorman and/or concierge: $25-$150 on average (broad range: $10-$1,000) Porters, handyman, and maintenance staff: $20-$30 on average (broad range: $10-$75)Dec 1, 2016read more >>