What to include in a quote – a top 10 checklist

What to include in your quote to make it attractive and easy to perceive for the client?

Creating a quote is a task that painting contractors face on a regular basis

What to include in your quote to make it attractive and easy to perceive for the client? You’ll want them to get back to you as soon as possible with only a few additional questions to kick off the project! Here is a checklist we hope you’ll find helpful.

1. Reserve sufficiently time for initial surveying/inspection to obtain a reliable idea of the project. The longer you spend on location making detailed notes, the easier it will be to estimate the hours needed and draft the offer.

2. Does it look like you’ll be needing help with the project? Make sure you have a network of skilled professionals to turn to. You will want to negotiate and document in advance which skills are available by whom for which price, and don’t forget to factor in your profit margin.

3. Make sure you know the client’s needs in detail. Does the project require plastering or just a repaint? Who is to define the original tone and binding agent? Remember to include the process in your time estimate. The document you sign will need to state clearly and definitely what is included and what is not included.

4. Let the client know the expiration date of your offer. Time is money for all of us.

5. You can specify suggested materials and material costs in the offer.

6. It may be a good idea to also include financial information, such as initial deposit, down payment amount, financing or payment terms, and contingencies.

7. If the client does not know your work from before, you may want to include a few references. Remember to add photos, and links to relevant websites if available.

8. Don’t forget to mention if you are a member of a local business or trade association and your company’s credit rating.

9. Consider and state your warranty; is it for the work only or including the products according to manufacturer’s terms and conditions?

10. Does the project include handling asbestos or other harmful substances? You may need to define special terms for expert/hazardous work including waste management.