Free General Contractor Quote Template
General contractors quote before starting because coordinating multiple trades on a single job creates cost dependencies. A quote that itemises the general contractor's project management fee alongside the trade costs lets the client see exactly what their project coordination costs.
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How does a general contractor write a quote?
A general contractor quote sets out the planned work, the materials, and the price before the job starts, such as a full bathroom remodel across all trades. List labour, materials, subcontractors, and project management separately, and note what hidden conditions could add. The customer approves the scope before the price is fixed.
Typical line items
- Full bathroom remodel (all trades)
- Materials, fixtures, and fittings
- Project management and coordination
- Trade subcontractors (plumbing, electrical, tiling)
- Permits and inspections (estimated)
- Site protection and clean-up
- Estimated labour days
- Contingency for hidden conditions
How the work is charged
General contractors usually quote a fixed price for the whole job, with labour, materials, and subcontractors itemised and a management fee for coordination. A contingency line covers what is found once work opens up.
Payment terms and deposits
A quote commonly proposes a deposit toward materials, milestone payments through the project, and a final balance on completion. The price holds for a stated period and is an estimate until accepted, so note what a site change would alter.
Tax and compliance
If you are registered for sales tax or VAT, show it as a separate line with your registration number. Permit and licensing rules differ by area, so confirm what applies before the work begins.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a general contractor charge for project management?
General contractors typically add 10% to 20% on top of subcontractor costs for project management, coordination, and overhead. On a €50,000 renovation with multiple trades, the GC markup adds €5,000 to €10,000. Some clients try to manage trades themselves; quote the coordination value clearly so they understand what's included.
What payment schedule should a general contractor quote specify?
Large renovation jobs typically use stage payments: 25% to 30% upfront for mobilisation and materials ordering, 30% at first milestone (structural work complete), 30% at second milestone, and 10% on final completion and snagging sign-off. Never ask for 100% upfront; never quote 100% on completion.
What happens if the scope changes mid-project?
Issue a written variation order for every scope change, however small. A variation order describes the change, the additional cost, and the revised timeline. Get the client's signature before proceeding. Verbal agreements are the source of most contractor disputes.
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Related quote templates
Read the complete quoting guide to see how to price a job and turn an accepted quote into an invoice.
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