Guides
Practical answers for contractors
Estimating, quoting, pricing, and the awkward customer situations that come with running a service business.
Contractor pricing
What to Do When a Customer Comes Back to an Old Quote After Prices Went Up
A customer is ready to move forward, but the number you sent weeks or months ago no longer works. Here is how to handle it without giving away your margin or surprising the customer.
8 minute readReadContractor estimating
Labor Cost Estimate Sample for Contractors: Free Template and Worked Example
A practical labor estimate you can copy, check, and adjust using your own payroll and overhead numbers. It includes a live calculator, a spreadsheet template, and the math behind the final customer price.
12 minute readReadContractor quoting
How to Change a Contractor Quote After the Customer Adds Work
Customers add outlets, paint another room, or ask for a bigger clean-up mid-job. Here is the simple rule for keeping the paperwork clean and getting paid for the extra work.
7 minute readReadContractor estimating
What Should Be on a Free Contractor Estimate?
A free estimate still needs enough detail to protect you and help the customer say yes. Use this checklist for new shops that are still sending first quotes.
8 minute readReadContractor paperwork
Contractor Estimate vs Invoice: What's the Difference?
New shops mix these up. An estimate prices the job before work. An invoice asks for payment for work agreed or completed. Use both on purpose.
6 minute readReadInterior painting estimates
Single-Room Interior Painting Estimate Template (Free Worksheet)
A practical takeoff for one interior room. Measure the room, convert that into paint area and labor, then turn the numbers into a customer-ready scope with inclusions and exclusions.
10 minute readReadExterior cleaning quotes
What to Do When Trees Block Google Earth on a Pressure Washing Quote
Satellite views are fast until the canopy covers the driveway. Here is a clear rule for when to ask for photos, when to drive out, and what to put on the estimate so you do not guess yourself into a loss.
7 minute readRead