Free Construction Estimate TemplateDescribe the job, list labor and materials, set a valid-until date and a deposit. Check the preview, then print the estimate or save it as a PDF. No sign-up, and nothing you type is uploaded.

How to write a construction estimate

1. 1

   Describe the job

   Put your business and the customer at the top, the address of the job site, and a short scope of work: what you will build, repair or remove.

2. 2

   List labor and materials

   Add a line for each trade or material with a quantity and a rate. Leave the quantity empty for a lump-sum line such as “Materials”. The subtotal and total are worked out for you.

3. 3

   Set the terms and send it

   Choose how long the price is valid, add a deposit if you take one, and list what is not included. Print it, save a PDF or email the PDF. The customer signs to accept.

What a contractor estimate should include

• Your business name, phone and email, and the customer’s name and job address
• A clear scope of work in plain words, so both sides picture the same job
• Labor and materials on separate lines, with quantities and rates
• The total, and the deposit or payment schedule you expect
• A valid-until date, because material and labor prices move
• What is not included, such as permits, hidden damage, finishes or disposal
• A line for the customer to sign and date to accept

Sample lines for a remodel or deck job

Use these as a starting point and change them to fit the job. The prices on the sample estimate are made up. They are not a price guide, and your own numbers should come from your costs, your area and a look at the site.

• Labor: demolition and haul-away (per hour)
• Labor: framing, plumbing or electrical rough-in, by the trade doing it (per hour)
• Labor: finish work such as tile, trim, drywall and paint (per hour)
• Materials: lumber, fixtures, tile, fasteners and paint (lump sum or itemized)
• Dumpster rental and disposal (per job)
• Allowance for items the customer will choose later, such as fixtures or flooring

Estimate, quote or bid?

An estimate is your best judgment of the cost and can move if the job turns out different. A quote or bid is a firm price for a defined scope. This page starts as an estimate, and the estimate tool lets you switch the document to a quote with one choice.

Whichever you use, write the scope down. Most disputes on building jobs start when the customer and the contractor pictured different work.

Tips for a clear estimate

• Visit the site before you price it, and say in the estimate that the price is based on that visit.
• List exclusions on the estimate itself so they are not a surprise later.
• Mention that changes to the plan will be priced in writing before the work is done. The change order tool can help with that.
• Keep a signed copy. If the customer accepts by email, save the email with the estimate.
• Whether you need a written contract, a license or a permit for the job depends on where you work and the size of the work. Check your state’s and your city’s rules.