What’s on the contractor estimate template
Extra fields on this template: Job site.
| Item | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition and haul-awayExisting cabinets, counters, backsplash | 1 | $2,200.00 | $2,200.00 |
| Cabinets, supply and installAllowance: [brand, finish] | 1 | $9,500.00 | $9,500.00 |
| Quartz countertopsPer sq ft, installed | 42 | $85.00 | $3,570.00 |
| Plumbing: sink, faucet, dishwasherLicensed plumber | 1 | $1,450.00 | $1,450.00 |
| Electrical: lighting and 4 outletsLicensed electrician | 1 | $1,800.00 | $1,800.00 |
| Tile backsplashPer sq ft | 30 | $28.00 | $840.00 |
| Estimated total | $19,360.00 | ||
Example prices in US dollars. Replace them with your own; in the generator, any currency works.
What a contractor estimate includes
- Your license number and insurance, where your state requires them on bids.
- Scope by trade: demolition, carpentry, plumbing, electrical, tile, paint. Name subcontracted trades.
- Allowances with the amount and what happens if the selection costs more or less.
- Permits, and who pulls them.
- A payment schedule tied to milestones, not dates.
- Exclusions: appliances, hidden damage, work by the owner.
Allowances without surprises
An allowance is a placeholder amount for something the client will choose later, such as cabinets, tile or light fixtures. State what it covers (material only, or installed), and that the final price goes up or down by the difference. Set allowances realistically: an allowance that’s too low makes your bid look cheaper but sours the job when the client picks what they actually want.
Deposits and state rules
Some states cap the deposit a home improvement contractor can take. California, for example, limits it to $1,000 or 10% of the contract price, whichever is less. Check your state’s home improvement rules before setting the schedule. When the job is under way, invoice each milestone with the construction invoice template or the handyman template for small jobs.
Frequently asked questions
Is a contractor’s estimate binding?
An estimate isn’t a fixed price, but once the client signs a contract based on it, the contract is binding. Put changes in writing as change orders before doing the work.
How much should a contractor charge to write an estimate?
Most estimates for homeowners are free. For large or design-heavy projects, some contractors charge a fee and credit it against the job if they’re hired.
Should materials be marked up?
Most contractors mark materials up 10–30% to cover ordering, pickup, storage and returns. You don’t have to show the markup separately.