Late service person, how soon can I call?

I am ever conscious of being seen as a pushy, aggressive American.  But a carpenter was supposed to show up at 9 this morning and so far, no show and no phone call.  I'm happy to wait an hour before getting annoyed -- traffic was hideous yesterday due to the tube strike, and maybe there's some overflow into today. 

That said, how soon is too soon to call to ask if the person is turning up?  Is an hour late too soon?  That's what I'd have waited back in the US before calling, but I just want to make sure that's not seen as too soon here. 

Well, I was probably pushy, but I called at an hour.  He's not coming.  Glad I called!

I give an hour. I waited an hour for a plumber once who had called in sick. Yes, traffic is probably worse than normal, but everyone has a mobile phone.   There is no reason to waste your day.

much less pushy than me, I'd have called at 9:30 if he said he'd be there at 9!

If it was loose, I'd give more time but an appointment is an appointment and if you are late (I call if I'm running 15 min late) you should call to let the person know.

Especially if you aren't going to make it! It's just inconsiderate.

Obviously, this isn't the case if you are in A & E or something.

Obviously, this isn't the case if you are in A & E or something.

Well, as it turns out, he answered his mobile and said he'd been in the hospital for a week. 

Oh well.  Glad I didn't wait longer!

Thanks to you both for the backup that I wasn't being pushy.  Despite living here for nearly 2 years, there are so many things that I'm still unsure about.

I think an hour is reasonable.  Also..you would call them if you weren't able to be there at the time they were to arrive, right?  It's just good manners for them to do the same!

(I mean, he's been in the hospital, so that's another story, but for anyone just running late or whatever, they should be calling!)

This guy is too laid back for me.
When I was in business all I could think about is considering my customers.
Is he doing this work for free?
Are there any other contractors who could do the work?

I asked my DF about this last night and she said workmen there are always late and she would wait 2 hours for one to show up before calling. I told her here we're on the phone in 30 minutes, tops and mad because he hasn't called *us* yet to tell us he's running late.

I guess this is pretty frustrating for you guys used to all that US good service but unfortunately the waiting in for someone is a part of UK life and the not turning up is seemingly common too. I know its appalling and especially bad if they dont ring/answer the phone. Its something we need to improve on big time.

I'd say if someone doesnt turn up..wait an hour then go out or carry on what your doing. If they are late and havent had the courtesy to call then they dont deserve your custom.