QuotewellWhat goes on a plumber estimate
Whatever the trade, a good estimate says what the work is, what it costs and what it does not cover. The lines Quotewell starts you with for plumbers are below; rename, delete or add lines to suit the job.
- Plumber labor. Hours at your rate, or a flat price for the repair or replacement.
- Pipe, fittings and supplies. Materials the job uses, as one line or several.
- Fixture or appliance supplied. Water heaters, faucets, toilets: say who supplies them and what is included.
- Permit. If the job needs one, say whether it is in the price.
- Service call or trip charge. If you charge one for the first visit.
Around the lines, put a clear scope of work, your contact details, the date and a valid-until date, the payment terms and a place to sign. Sources that describe what to include list the same things: the scope, labor and material costs, dates, inclusions and exclusions, and the payment terms (FreshBooks, Housecall Pro).
How to price plumber work
Many plumbers quote a flat price for a defined job such as replacing a water heater, and hourly plus parts for diagnosis and repairs. A flat price should say exactly what it covers. If access or hidden damage could change the work, say that extra work will be agreed before it is done.
An example, with made-up numbers
This is a estimate for a made-up job, worked out by the same engine the tool uses. The numbers are invented to show the layout. They are not a price guide: charge what your costs, your market and your area support.
| Line | Quantity | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber labor | 5 hr | $90.00 | $450.00 |
| Pipe, fittings and supplies | 1 lot | $160.00 | $160.00 |
| Fixture or appliance supplied | 1 ea | $780.00 | $780.00 |
| Permit (if needed) | 1 ea | $120.00 | $120.00 |
| Service call or trip charge | 1 ea | $70.00 | $70.00 |
| Subtotal | $1,580.00 | ||
| Sales tax (6.5%, on the taxable lines) | $61.10 | ||
| Total | $1,641.10 | ||
| Deposit to start (25%) | $410.28 | ||
| Balance on completion | $1,230.82 | ||
How to make your estimate in four steps
- Choose Plumber. Click Plumber in the tool. It fills in typical lines and starting terms.
- Add your business and the customer. Your name, phone, email, address, license or registration number and, if you like, your logo. Add the customer's name and the job address, then describe the scope of work.
- Price the lines. For each line choose labor, materials or other, then enter the quantity, unit and rate. Tick Taxable on the lines your area taxes.
- Set discount, markup, tax and deposit. Each is optional. The total, the deposit and the balance due update as you type.
- Download the PDF. The PDF is built on your device. Send it, print it with the signature lines, or use Copy as text for a message.
Tips for a estimate that wins the job
- Say who supplies the fixture. It changes the price and avoids arguments.
- Describe the old equipment you are removing and who disposes of it.
- If the job needs a permit, say who applies for it.
Check your local rules
Licensing, permits, written-contract rules and sales tax on materials or labor differ by state, province and country. In California, for example, the state licensing board says home improvement work over $500 needs a written contract signed by all parties, and changes must be in writing too (CSLB). Check your own licensing board or tax office, and use the terms box for the terms that apply to you. Quotewell is an independent tool, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Rules for estimates, contracts, permits and sales tax differ by state, country and trade, so check yours.
Sources
- FreshBooks: Quote, estimate, bid or proposal? The differences explained
- Housecall Pro: Free handyman quote template
- California Contractors State License Board: What is a contract?
Supplies for printing
The estimate maker is free. If you price jobs on site, these are the usual tools and supplies:
- Carbonless estimate form books on Amazon
- Laser distance measurer on Amazon
- 25 ft tape measure on Amazon
- Clipboard with storage case on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Related free tools
- Contractor invoice template: invoice the job once the work is done.
- Punch list with photos: list and photograph the finishing touches before you bill.
- Price list maker: print a menu of your standard services and prices.
Frequently asked questions
Should I give a flat price or an hourly estimate?
For a well-defined job a flat price is easier for the customer to approve. For diagnosis or open-ended repairs, hourly plus parts is more honest. The estimate should say which.
Can I add a service call fee?
Yes. Use the Service call or trip charge line, or delete it if you do not charge one.
Is this plumber estimate template really free?
Yes. There is no account, no sign-up and no limit. Each PDF has a small “Made with Quotewell” line in the bottom margin.
Where is my information stored?
Only in your browser. Your details and documents stay on your device and the PDF is built there. Nothing is uploaded.
Can I add my logo and a signature line?
Yes. Upload a PNG or JPG logo and tick Add signature lines. The PDF then has a customer and a contractor signature and date.
More estimate templates
Last updated · Written by the Rooh Sites team. Prices on this page are made-up examples.