How to Write Construction Quote: 7 Steps to Land a Client

How to Write a Construction Quote

A construction quote gives clients an idea of what the cost of their proposed project is. By getting one from their contractor, they can decide whether it is something they can afford or not.

But before you can present a construction quote to your client, you’ll have to assess things carefully. Here are the steps you need to come up with an estimate for a potential client:

1. Review the scope of the project

Before you start doing anything, take time to review the scope of the project. You won’t be able to produce an estimate without fully understanding and knowing the project details.

Some of the things you need to assess include the following:

• The services you need to provide
• The cost of the project
• Whether you need to provide a breakdown of costs or just provide the total
• The expected competition date of the project
• Client’s expectations of the result of the project

As someone in the construction field, you will need to conduct a site visit to understand the project fully. You also need to build a good working relationship with your client so things will run smoothly.

2. Give a rough estimate

Before the client decides to hire you for the project, you will need to provide a rough estimate. When drafting a construction quote, take into consideration the timeline of the project. This will give you an idea of how long the project will need to be completed.

In the quote, be sure to include your timeline estimate. Can the project be completed in a month’s time? What struggles do you expect to face when accepting this particular project?

Your client will appreciate your honesty since it gives him an idea of when you can finish.

3. Identify if you need help

Unless you have an all-in-one construction firm, you can’t expect to do everything. There are some parts of the construction that you will need to have done by a subcontractor.

Another reason why you might need to outsource some of the work is to save time. If you are working on multiple projects at the same time, a subcontractor can help you out.

For example, would it be better for you to have the furniture built by a carpenter? Do you need to bring in a plumber to take care of the bath?

Working with a subcontractor can be a big help, especially if these things are outside your service scope.

4. Calculate an estimate of the materials

A bulk of the quote will go to materials needed in the construction. Keep in mind that costs tend to fluctuate. And if you’re working with very specific or hard-to-get materials, these things will cost more.

When you’re writing a construction quote for the materials, try to shop around for options. It might also be a good idea to present another option to your client, especially if he is open to it.

Be flexible without needing to provide an estimate that is way over or under the actual cost.

5. Check with your competitors

It’s also a good practice to check the pricing that your competitors may offer. How far apart are your prices? Can you justify why your material costs more compared to their pricing? Do you need to adjust your prices to be in the same ballpark as them?

By checking with your competitors, you can get an idea of how you should market your services. 

6. List down your terms and conditions

The estimate you provide should include your terms and conditions. Some of the details you can include are the payment terms, downpayment requirements, and warranty. Will you accept a 50% downpayment, or do you need the project to be paid in full? How many months of warranty can you provide?

It is important to provide these so you can set expectations for the project.

7. Be professional in your estimate

The quote you provide to your client should be detailed and thorough. The document should include your company name, logo, contact details, and some references. 

It’s also good to provide a short overview of your company and how long you’ve been in the construction business.

When you’re all done, make sure to double-check the document before you submit it. This ensures that you have the correct numbers and that you are not missing any vital information.