"With Invoicer, it's so fast and easy I never have to worry about how I'd like it to feel. Rather, it does the job I need it to do and I love it!"
Or, send estimates to your clients with our free contractor estimate templates.
Download for Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Docs, Sheets, PDF, and OpenOffice formats:
.png)
Choose from a variety of designs.
Or, use Invoicer to easily create an estimate.
Easy and intuitive estimate generator. Create invoices from estimates in one click.
Clear and simple process for your clients to approve. Automatically create invoices from approved estimates.
Easily customize with your brand and colors.
Want to know how to quote your remodeling services professionally? Learn everything you need to know about creating clear, accurate remodeling estimates, and discover a better alternative to traditional templates.
Quoting a remodeling project is rarely straightforward. Each job comes with its own set of challenges, like unexpected structural issues, custom finishes, client changes mid-project, or coordination with other trades.
So, what seems like a simple bathroom update might involve moving plumbing or dealing with outdated wiring behind the walls. Clients also don't always know what's usually included, and without a clear estimate, they may assume things like demolition, permits, or final cleanup are part of the package.
That's why using a remodeling estimate template is so valuable. It helps you present all the key details in a professional, organized way that sets expectations, builds trust, and protects your time and bottom line.
A remodeling estimate template is a ready-made document structure that helps contractors produce thorough, consistent, and accurate bids for residential or commercial renovation projects.
It usually includes sections for the project scope, materials, labor, subcontracted work, permit requirements, job conditions, exclusions, payment terms, and warranties.
Instead of reinventing the wheel for every new lead, a template gives you a reliable foundation complete with itemized categories for demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, finishes, appliances, cleanup, and more. You simply adjust it based on the job's specifications.
Having a standardized template also simplifies training new estimators, streamlines communication with clients and project managers, and reinforces your brand's professionalism.
A thorough estimate built from a solid template tells the client: "We've done this before. We know what to expect. And we'll handle it right."
In remodeling, change is constant as structures are uncovered, surprises occur, and client expectations evolve, making a clear and professional estimate is essential to keep everyone on the same track.
A well-prepared estimate builds trust by showing clients that you have thoughtfully considered every aspect of their unique project, from dust protection to fixture installations, which demonstrates your attention to detail and transparency.
It also helps set clear expectations by outlining exactly what is included and what is not, so there is no confusion about whether painting is part of the bid or if clients are responsible for supplying their own fixtures.
Most importantly, a detailed estimate protects your time and profit margins by ensuring that you consistently charge for all parts of the job, including disposal fees, appliance installation, and lead-safe practices, while giving you a solid foundation to explain your pricing if clients question why a simple update might cost more than expected.
Different project scopes call for different estimating styles. Here are the most useful types of templates for remodeling contractors:
These templates focus on one area of the home, like a bathroom, kitchen, or finished basement. They break down the job by trade and component, such as cabinetry, countertops, tile, fixtures, appliances, and trim work. This style helps the client understand how costs are distributed across the remodel and makes upgrades easy to present as line items.
Used for large-scale projects, these templates cover every phase and trade from demolition to final paint touch-ups. They include structural changes, mechanical systems, finish selections, window and door upgrades, exterior work, and more. These are particularly helpful when working with real estate investors or homeowners who need to justify the full investment and timeline.
This format organizes the estimate by project phase, like demolition, framing, electrical rough-in, drywall, flooring, and final cleanup. Each phase is priced independently. It's useful for clients who want to understand the construction sequence or for GCs managing multiple subs. It also makes adjusting just one part of the job easier without rewriting the entire proposal.
Ideal for complex or custom projects where tasks vary widely by scope, this template allows you to separate labor hours, material quantities, and subcontractor fees. For example, you might show 30 hours of framing labor at a certain rate, plus the cost of lumber, plus the electrician's subcontracted bid.
These templates are useful for well-defined scopes like installing a new shower system or doing a basic kitchen facelift.You can offer one bundled price that includes all labor, materials, and cleanup.
For your estimate to do its job well, it needs to be detailed. Here are the essential sections to include in every remodeling estimate:
Start with your logo, company name, license number, address, contact info, website, and insurance certifications. If you're bonded or certified for lead-safe or asbestos work, include those details too.
List the client's name, project address, email, and phone number. Make sure this matches their contract or proposal paperwork so everything stays organized if the job moves forward.
Each estimate should have a unique reference number and the date it was issued.
This section briefly describes the work being proposed. Be clear and specific. For example:
"Remodel of existing 10x12 kitchen including removal of existing cabinetry, installation of new semi-custom cabinets, quartz countertops, upgraded lighting, tile backsplash, and new flooring."
This is where you go line by line. Include everything that applies:
Where possible, provide breakdowns with measurable units—square feet of flooring, linear feet of trim, number of fixtures, etc. This helps with transparency and makes your estimates more defensible.
List the projected start date and estimated timeline, noting any constraints. Mention if the schedule is dependent on material arrival, permit approval, or weather conditions. For larger jobs, consider providing a phase-based schedule.
This is where you outline the business side of the estimate. Include:
This section protects both you and your client from misunderstandings later.
Sum up all items, apply sales tax where required, and clearly show the final total. You may also want to list optional upgrades or allowances for selections like lighting or fixtures. Being transparent here helps avoid surprise costs down the road.
Always include a place for the client to sign or approve the estimate.
Estimate templates are a practical and efficient tool for any business because they save time, reduce errors, and can be fully customized to match specific needs.
The easiest way to create a professional remodeling estimate is by using a pre-made estimate template. Ready-to-use templates help professionals include all necessary project details without the hassle of building an estimate from scratch every time.
All they need to do is download an estimate template for remodeling services, fill it out, customize it with company branding, and send it to the client.
A solid remodeling estimate template saves time, improves clarity, and makes your proposals look more professional. Here's how to create one that works.
1. Find a Reliable Estimate Template – Look for an estimate template that suits your needs. You can find free remodeling estimate templates in Word, Google Docs, Excel, or Google Sheets.
2. Select the Right Template – Choose a remodeling template that allows you to include all necessary details, such as labor, materials, and project timelines.
3. Fill in Basic Information – Enter essential details like your company name, logo, contact information, and project description.
4. Customize and Brand Your Estimate – Adjust the template's color scheme, fonts, and layout to match your company's branding. Add your website URL, business license number, and any other relevant details.
5. Fine-Tune the Cost Breakdown – Make sure the itemized list includes all necessary categories, such as labor costs, material costs, subcontractor fees, and permit costs.
6. Review the Format and Layout – Before sending the remodeling estimate to your client, double-check for accuracy by:
These platforms offer customizable remodeling estimate templates that professionals can quickly adjust to meet the needs of different projects.
With estimating software, all you need to do is enter business details, adjust the layout, and input the required cost breakdown.
Once the estimate template is set up, it can be saved for future use, allowing remodeling estimates to be generated in just a few clicks.
Using estimate templates or our Estimate Maker speeds up the process and assures that every remodeling estimate is professional, accurate, and easy to understand.
Even if you already have an estimate, it's still a good idea to customize it. Remember, clients want to feel like you understand their home, their goals, and their style. Here's how to customize your remodeling estimate template:
If possible, do a walkthrough of the project area. Note details like ceiling height, existing finishes, traffic flow, storage, and lighting. Check for access challenges like narrow stairways or limited parking. The more you understand the physical space, the more accurate and professional your estimate will be.
Some clients want high-end finishes; others want a budget-conscious solution. Listen closely during your consultation. If a client values speed, you may want to emphasize how your team can simplify phases. If they care about energy efficiency or long-term durability, include options like insulation upgrades or low-maintenance materials.
Building codes vary from city to city. Include notes in your estimate that show you understand local requirements.
Use your estimate to show clients possibilities. Offer upgrades as separate line items, such as soft-close cabinet hardware, radiant floor heating, or designer paint brands. When clients feel in control of their options, they're more likely to trust the base price and even upsell themselves.
Timing matters almost as much as pricing. A prompt, detailed estimate can help you close jobs faster and outpace less organized competitors.
Aim to send your estimate within 24 to 48 hours of the walkthrough. This way, you'll show that you're attentive, responsive, and easy to work with. The job is still fresh in the client's mind, and you can build on the momentum of the meeting.
Many clients need estimates to secure financing, apply for city permits, or plan move-in timelines. If they're waiting on you to move forward, get the estimate to them early.
Did the client mention they're nervous about going over budget? Are they living in the home during the remodel? Use your estimate to respond to these concerns directly. For example, note that your team uses dust control methods or that you've included a 10% contingency budget.
If your calendar fills up quickly, use that as a subtle motivator. Let clients know in the estimate that your schedule is booking fast. It can create healthy urgency and encourage them to commit sooner.
Even experienced remodelers can lose profit or client trust by skipping key details. Avoid these pitfalls:
Remodeling often takes longer than expected. Old homes have quirks. Walls aren't square. Subfloors are uneven. So, always build in buffer time for problem-solving and material delays. Underquoting labor is one of the fastest ways to burn through your margin.
Clients expect clean workspaces and protection for their floors, furniture, and pets. Be sure to include dust barriers, plastic sheeting, floor coverings, and daily cleanup. Also, don't forget to charge for dumpsters or haul-away services.
Some remodels require multiple inspections—framing, electrical, insulation, and finals. Permit fees and wait times should be included in both your estimate and your timeline. Failing to plan for these can delay the job and frustrate the client.
Paint quality, drywall finish (Level 3, 4, or 5), cabinet hardware—if these aren't clearly defined, you could be on the hook for something fancier than you budgeted. Always specify exactly what materials and finish levels are included.
An estimate without an expiration date can come back to haunt you months later when material prices have doubled. Always include how long your price is valid and how change requests will be handled. Protect your business in writing.
While estimate templates are very helpful, Estimate Maker offers a more efficient and accurate way to create estimates for remodeling projects. Instead of manually entering details into a template, it automates the process, saving time and reducing errors.
1. Faster and More Efficient – Pre-built templates require manual entry, while an estimate maker allows you to generate estimates with just a few clicks.
2. Automated Calculations – Reduces human error by automatically applying tax rates, labor costs, and material pricing.
3. Customization Without Hassle – Easily adjust branding, payment terms, and cost breakdowns without needing to modify a static template.
4. Better Organization – Stores past estimates in one place, making it easy to track and update them when needed.
5. Quicker Conversions to Invoices – Convert approved estimates into invoices instantly, reducing the time between estimation and payment.
6. Professional Appearance – Generates polished, client-ready estimates that look more professional than a basic remodeling estimate template.
7. Time-Saving Templates – Save custom estimate formats and reuse them without starting from scratch each time.
Clear and accurate remodeling estimates help set expectations, prevent disputes, and keep projects on track.
For a faster, more automated approach, Estimate Maker offers built-in calculations, easy adjustments, professional estimate templates, and much more! Plus, you can try it free for 14 days.
