Why your contractor quotation is costing you jobs
Most contractors lose jobs not on price but on presentation. A professional detailed quotation builds client confidence. A vague email loses the job to a competitor who looks more professional.
What every contractor quotation must include
- Your company name, address and contact details
- Registration and insurance details
- Client name and project site address
- Unique quotation number and issue date
- Validity period - 30 days recommended
- Detailed scope of work including what is NOT included
- Materials breakdown with quantities
- Labour costs by trade
- Equipment hire or plant costs
- Waste disposal
- Applicable VAT or tax
- Stage payment schedule for large projects
- Payment terms
Stage payments for contractor quotations
For projects over £5,000: deposit on acceptance 25%, progress payment at midpoint 50%, final on completion 25%. Always get stage payment milestones agreed in writing before starting.
How to handle variations
Any work outside the original scope must be quoted separately and approved in writing. State this clearly: Any additional works not listed above will be subject to a separate written quotation.