What to put on a job estimate
- Your business name, phone and license number
- The customer's name and the job address
- Line items grouped by part of the job, each with quantity, unit and price
- Optional extras the customer can add, priced separately
- Tax, total, and the deposit needed to book
- How long the price is good for, and what happens if the scope changes
- A place for the customer to sign
Itemized estimates get questioned less than a single lump sum, because the customer can see where the money goes. If you'd rather not show unit prices, tick "section totals only" above.
Construction estimate template
For construction and remodeling jobs, use one section per phase (demo, framing, finishes) or per trade, and mark allowances as optional so the customer can see what's included. The template starts with your line items from any CanaryQuote calculator, so material quantities come straight from your measurements.
Estimate templates by trade
- Roofing estimate template
- Painting estimate template
- Landscaping estimate template
- Fencing estimate template
- Cleaning estimate template
- Handyman estimate template
- Plumbing estimate template
- Electrical estimate template
Estimate, quote, work order, change order, invoice
| Document | When you use it |
|---|---|
| Estimate | Before the job. Your best guess at the price, which can change once you see more. |
| Quote | Before the job. A fixed price the customer can accept. |
| Work order | After they accept. Tells your crew what to do, and where. |
| Change order | During the job. Prices extra work and gets it signed before you start it. |
| Invoice | After the job. Bills the balance. |
Questions
Is this estimate template free?
Yes. Fill it in and download PDF, Word or Excel as often as you like. There's no account, no email gate and no watermark.
How much deposit should a contractor ask for?
Many contractors ask for 10–50% depending on material cost. Some states cap deposits on home improvement work, so check your state's rules before you set it.
How long should an estimate be valid?
30 days is common. Use 14 days when material prices are moving fast.
What's the difference between an estimate and a quote?
An estimate is your best guess and can change. A quote is a fixed price the customer can accept. Switch between them with the tabs at the top; the line items stay the same.