Why Your Quote Needs to Be Specific
A vague quote is an invitation to disputes. Customers will assume you meant something cheaper. Your team will start the job without clarity on scope. You'll end up doing extra work unbilled or having an unhappy customer. The fix is straightforward: write quotes detailed enough that there's no room for misunderstanding.
A tight quote also protects you legally. If something goes wrong, you want your scope of work documented. If a customer claims you agreed to something you didn't, your quote becomes evidence.
The Job Description and Scope
Start with exactly what you're doing. Don't write "rewire kitchen." Write:
- Replace existing 15-amp circuit with new 20-amp circuit to kitchen
- Install 4 new outlets (locations: counter by sink, counter by stove, counter by fridge, under-cabinet)
- Upgrade breaker in main panel from 15A to 20A
- New romex cable from panel to kitchen, run through walls (existing access used)
- Does not include: drywall repair, painting, moving gas line, upgrading service entrance
That last bit is critical. List what's not included. If the customer expects you to fix their drywall and you don't, that's when quotes blow up. Spell it out.
Materials and Labor Broken Down
Break your quote into materials and labor. This shows the customer where their money goes and gives you a clear record for your costs.
Materials: List everything you'll actually use. Cable, breaker, outlets, boxes, conduit, fasteners—whatever gets installed. Include the quantity. If you're using mid-range gear, say so. High-end? Mention it. This prevents the customer from thinking you're using budget components when you're not, or vice versa.
Labor: Quote hours or a flat rate—whatever your business model is. Be realistic about time. You know how long a job takes. Account for access difficulty, whether you need to cut into walls, how many circuits you're dealing with. A customer won't know the difference between 3 hours and 5 hours, but you will, and you'll regret underselling.
Permits, Inspections, and Code Requirements
State upfront whether permits are needed and who's handling them. Some jobs need them, some don't. The customer needs to know the cost impact and timeline.
Example: "Permit and inspection required for this work. Estimated permit cost: £150–£200 (local authority fee, not included in quote above). Inspection typically takes 3–5 working days after completion."
If you're getting the permit, add that cost. If the customer is, tell them. If you're handling the inspection scheduling, say so. Uncertainty kills jobs.
Timeline and Conditions
Include when you'll start and roughly how long it'll take. "Tuesday 14th, approximately 6 hours" is better than "next week sometime."
Add any conditions that affect the job:
- Weather delays (outdoor work)
- Site access requirements (gates, doors, parking)
- Power shutdowns required during work
- Asbestos testing if the property is older
- What happens if you discover additional issues (damaged wiring, substandard installation, etc.)
For that last one: "If we discover additional code violations or unsafe wiring during work, we'll notify you immediately with options and pricing before proceeding."
Terms and Validity
State how long the quote is valid. "This quote valid for 30 days" stops customers from asking you to honor pricing from months ago when your material costs have changed.
Include your terms: deposit required, payment schedule, what happens if the job changes. Keep it straightforward. "50% deposit to secure the date, balance on completion" is clear.
Add your cancellation policy if you have one. Most trades require notice—spell it out so there's no argument later.
Your Contact and Next Steps
End with how they accept the quote and contact you. Phone number, email, online booking link if you use one. Make the next step obvious.
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