How to build and use a construction quote template.
Skip the heavy lifting of submitting individual quotes and save time with an editable construction quote template.
Great construction work happens long before workers arrive on-site or an excavator breaks ground. It first starts with a clear, professional construction quote that’s both easy to understand and accessible by all parties. As a contractor or construction company owner, you’ll use this document to outline the cost of a project based on labor and material costs. Let’s explore what to include in yours and how you can simplify the process with a construction quote template.
What is a construction quote?
A construction quote is a detailed document that outlines the estimated costs and scope of work for a construction project. It provides clients with a clear breakdown of expenses, including materials, labor, equipment, and project specifics. This helps clients make informed decisions when choosing a construction contractor.
Is a construction estimate the same as a construction quote?
A construction estimate is an initial, non-binding projection of project costs that is commonly used for early budgeting and planning purposes. It provides a rough overview of the expenses involved in a construction project but is not a formal commitment. As the project progresses and more information becomes available, the estimate may change.
On the other hand, a construction quote is a detailed, legally binding document that outlines the precise costs for materials, labor, and other associated expenses. It functions as a formal offer from the construction company to the client. If the client accepts the quote, it then becomes the cornerstone of a contractual agreement, and the construction company is obligated to complete the project in accordance with the terms and costs specified in the quote.
Important information to include in a construction quote template.
Understanding what to include in your quote when using with or in lieu of a construction bid proposal is crucial when designing a construction quote template. Construction quotes provide detailed cost estimates for specific projects and are often used for smaller or client-requested jobs. On the other hand, construction bids are more formal, competitive proposals submitted in response to a request for proposal (RFP) or an invitation to bid (ITB). Bidding is typically associated with larger projects or public contracts.
The great thing about construction quotes is the amount of detail — but that’s also what makes them so cumbersome. In fact, most can take up to 20–40 hours to complete. One way to save time on this process is to create an editable template, especially if you often perform the same type of construction work or specialty.
When making yours, you’ll want to be sure to include these basics:
- Company name and contact information
- Company logo
- Document title, such as “Construction Quote”
- Individual or company name who is requesting the quote
- Individual material and labor cost breakdown
- Total project cost
- Your quote’s expiration date
- Place for your signature and date
You can search for customizable templates online or start from scratch in a simple Microsoft Word document when you’re ready. Once you finish, you can convert it to an editable PDF that you fill in as you quote new projects — saving time and effort with every new request.
Tips for how to build a construction quote template.
From selecting the right software to distributing the final quote, these steps on how to build a construction quote template will help you improve your quoting process:
- Choose a software platform (e.g., Word or Google Docs) for creating your template.
- Build a structured template with sections for client info, project details, cost breakdown, and terms.
- Populate the template with specific client and project details.
- Insert signature lines for both the client and company, whether physical or electronic.
- Convert the completed template to a PDF for consistent formatting.
- Review and test that the document is error-free, functional, and ready for distribution.
- Share the PDF with the client for review and discussion.
Benefits of using a construction quote template.
Using a construction quote template provides several advantages in the quoting process, making it a valuable tool for construction businesses. Here are some key benefits:
- Reusability. Easily adapt templates for various projects, saving time and effort.
- Structured format. Maintain a consistent, professional presentation with predefined sections and fields.
- Reduced human error. Templates minimize the risk of manual mistakes in cost estimation.
- Time efficiency. Expedite responses to client inquiries by streamlining the quoting process.
- Transparency. Strengthen client understanding of costs and terms, building trust through a structured format.
Streamline your construction quote and signatures.
To make your construction quote and signature process more efficient, use automation for calculations and pre-fill common data. By doing so, you’ll not only boost your productivity but also provide a smoother experience for both your team and clients, ultimately making your construction business more effective. Send documents and collect necessary e-signatures to keep your construction business flowing.
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