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General Contractor · Estimate template

Free contractor estimate template

A detailed estimate template for general contractors. Phase your projects, separate labour from materials, include a contingency line — present like a pro.

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A contingency line isn't hedging. It's the difference between an estimate that looks realistic and one that ignores the risk everyone in the room knows exists. Show 5-15% depending on project complexity as its own line. That signals to the customer that you've thought about what could go wrong, instead of promising a number you'll inevitably have to revise upward.

State your change-order policy in the estimate itself: "any changes to scope will be billed separately and require written approval before work proceeds." On a multi-phase project, scope drifts constantly as the customer sees progress and starts wanting adjustments. Agreeing this before work starts turns a potential argument into a simple, expected process.

Estimate or quote is a real decision, not merely a word choice. Use an estimate when hidden variables are genuinely likely: structural work, ground conditions, an older building with unknown wiring behind the walls. Use a quote for fixed-scope work like a single-room extension or a deck. A confident fixed price is easier to compare against competitors and reads as more assured.

Subcontractor allowances should be labelled as allowances, not fixed prices, when you haven't confirmed the sub-trade's rate yet. A line marked "electrical — allowance, subject to sub-contractor quote" is more honest than a firm number you're guessing at. It also protects you from being held to a figure that was really a placeholder when you first put the estimate together.

What this template includes

  • ✓Phase-based line items (demo, build, finishing)
  • ✓Subcontractor allowances
  • ✓Materials with mark-up
  • ✓Contingency line for unforeseen issues
  • ✓Detailed scope notes

Full guide

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Frequently asked questions

Yes — 5-15% depending on project complexity. List it as its own line. This signals to the customer that you're planning realistically, and protects you when surprises happen.

Note in the estimate: "Any changes to scope will be billed separately and require written approval before work proceeds." This sets clear expectations from day one.

For projects with hidden variables (structural, ground conditions), use an estimate. For fixed-scope work like a deck or a single-room job, a quote is more confident and easier to compare.

Live preview

Your Business Name
+44 20 1234 5678
12 Example Street London EC1A 1AA
Estimate
Q-1042
Aug 11, 2026
Valid until Sep 10, 2026
Bill to
Mr & Mrs Carter
[email protected]
Job
Kitchen extension — single storey
Description
Qty
Unit
Total
Phase 1
Demolition, ground works, foundations
1
£8,400.00
£8,400.00
Phase 2
Walls, roof structure, weathering
1
£14,200.00
£14,200.00
Phase 3
Plastering, flooring, electrics, plumbing
1
£11,800.00
£11,800.00
Materials
Bricks, blocks, timber, roofing
1
£6,800.00
£6,800.00
Contingency
10% buffer for unforeseen works
1
£4,120.00
£4,120.00
Phase 1£8,400.00
Phase 2£14,200.00
Phase 3£11,800.00
Materials£6,800.00
Contingency£4,120.00
Subtotal£45,320.00
Tax (20%)£9,064.00
Total£54,384.00
Notes

Estimate based on architectural drawings dated March 2026. Excludes kitchen units (supplied by client). Contingency covers unforeseen structural or service-relocation work only.

Payment instructions

Bank: Example Bank Sort code: 00-00-00 Account: 12345678

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