An estimate needs 10 things: business details, client details, estimate number, issue date, validity period, scope of work, itemised line items (labour + materials + subs + permits), assumptions and exclusions, contingency, and total. This guide walks through each field, what to include and exclude, sample structures, and the difference between an estimate and a quote.
An estimate becomes a contract once accepted in writing or by deposit payment, with the agreed scope and terms.
Yes — itemise tax separately. Clients want to see the all-in cost.
Yes — transparency builds trust. The math invites verification rather than negotiation.
Yes — they share most fields. Use the same generator with different document type labels.
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