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Builder quote template (UK)

Turn your measurements and notes into a clear building quote with a payment schedule and a sign-off box for the customer.

Your business
Logo (optional)
PNG or JPG. It stays on your device.
Client
Quote details
Items
Total:

Quick add (prices are examples, edit them to match yours):

VAT

Only add VAT if you're VAT-registered. Registration is compulsory once your taxable turnover goes over £90,000 in a rolling 12 months. The standard rate is 20%. Check rates on GOV.UK.

Terms and notes

Next step (copies the client and items across):

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What a building quote needs

A good building quote is mostly about scope. Customers compare quotes on price, but disputes happen over what was included. Describe the work in the order you'll do it: groundworks, foundations, drainage, walls, roof, first fix, plastering, second fix and making good. Put the main items on their own lines.

Exclusions and provisional sums

Write down what isn't included. Common gaps are decorating, flooring, kitchen units, electrics and plumbing by others, and planning or building control fees. Be just as clear about what you can't know yet. If the depth of the foundations depends on what building control asks for once you dig, give a provisional sum: a set allowance for that item, to be adjusted to the real cost later. Label it clearly so the customer knows the figure can change.

Payment schedule

Big jobs need a schedule. Put the stages and amounts in the terms box, for example:

Customers are more comfortable paying in stages when they can see the plan up front.

Permissions

Say who is responsible for planning permission, building regulations approval and any party wall agreements. Often it's the homeowner, but customers don't always know that.

Validity

Material prices move, so keep the validity period short on big jobs. This template defaults to 30 days and you can change it.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a quote and an estimate for building work?

A quote is a fixed price for the work described. An estimate is a guide that may change. For building work, many builders give a quote with clearly labelled provisional sums for the unknowns.

Should I include VAT in a building quote?

If you're VAT-registered, show VAT so the customer sees the full cost. Homeowners can't reclaim it, so a total without VAT can come as a shock later.

How do I quote for a variation?

Send a short separate quote for the extra work and get the customer's agreement before you start it.

Guides

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