How to use this estimate template
- Name the project and set the estimate date. Valid until moves with it automatically.
- Break the job into lines: materials, labor hours, equipment, subcontractors.
- Spell out what's excluded in the notes, then download and send.
Estimate, quote or bid?
| Price is | Used when | |
|---|---|---|
| Estimate | Approximate | Scope isn't fully known yet |
| Quote | Fixed for the listed scope | Scope and quantities are clear |
| Bid | Fixed, competitive | Responding to a formal request |
Pricing an estimate
Build it up from costs, then add your margin:
- Materials at cost, plus waste (often 5%–10%).
- Labor hours × your loaded hourly cost (wages, payroll tax and insurance).
- Subcontractors, permits, equipment rental and disposal.
- Overhead and profit, as a markup on the total. The markup calculator shows the resulting margin.
Scope and exclusions
Most disputes come from assumptions. List what is not included, such as permits, haul-away, patching, painting or work behind walls, and say how changes will be handled: in writing, and priced before the work is done.
After approval
Get a signature on the approval line, or a written “approved” by email. Collect any deposit and record it on a receipt. When the job is finished, bill the final amount on an invoice.