For the above reasons, this is why this year I've been saying to every new customer, first clean, EOT or one off 'we do require full payment in cleared funds before clean commencement'
All but 1 so far has been fine with it.
The 1 that wasn't? Suspected messer anyway.
Works a treat.
Last new job was yesterday. £20 paid in cash, said I'd be there on Monday.
He was fine with it.