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Contractor quotation format: building, repair and works

Builders, masons, electricians, plumbers, painters, fabricators and waterproofing teams usually win work on a quotation and lose money on the work the quotation didn't mention. Spell out the scope.

Quotation or estimate?

Use a quotation when the job is measured and the scope is fixed ("Paint 1,450 sq ft of walls, two coats"). Use an estimate when you can't see everything yet, such as leakage repair or old wiring, and say what may change the price.

Lines that work

• One line per kind of work, with a measured quantity and unit: "Wall putty and two coats of emulsion, Asian Royale or equal, 1,450 Sq ft @ ₹28".
• Separate lines for material and labour if the customer may supply material.
• Site visit, debris removal and scaffolding as their own lines, or a clear "not included" term.
• Write the site address as the ship-to address. For work on a building, the place of supply is generally where the property is, which decides CGST + SGST or IGST.

Terms contractors use

• Quantities will be measured at site after work and billed at the rates above.
• Payment: 30% advance, 40% on completion of the first stage, 30% on handover.
• Extra work beyond this quotation only on written approval, at the rates agreed before it starts.
• Water and electricity at site by the customer.

Tips

• For a big job, quote by stage (foundation, structure, finishing) so the customer can match your later running bills to the quotation.
• GST rates for works contracts depend on the type of work and the customer. Confirm the rate with your accountant before your first quotation, and keep "GST at the rate applicable on the date of invoice" in your terms.
• When the customer accepts, press Make invoice for the first running bill and change the quantities to the work done.