, Published 27 Jan 2022
What is an Estimate Template?
An estimate template is a tool used by contractors to easily show clients a quote of expected expenses for a project or job. It usually includes the work description, list of products and services, overall price, payment terms, and validity period. In the construction industry, estimate templates help break down the total cost by itemizing materials and labor with the required licenses and other fees. Making estimates using free templates enables contractors to efficiently provide presentable and professional-looking quotes.
Estimate Template
This estimate template can be used by general contractors and professional service providers to create cost estimation for any type of project. It has been designed for users to easily estimate costs on their mobile devices anytime, anywhere and instantly send their clients a professional quote for the project to be completed. Use this template in SafetyCulture (iAuditor) to easily:
- Fill out the general information such as the name, address, and contact details of the contractor and client.
- Write a brief description of the work to be carried out.
- Select the elements that will be included in the breakdown of costs, whether materials, labor, and/or others.
- Specify each product, service, and/or item with their respective quantity, unit price, duration, hourly rate, and amount.
- Take and/or attach photos of components in the breakdown for easier visual reference.
- Indicate the total estimated cost and validity period of the cost estimation.
- Confirm the terms and conditions then complete the estimate template with digital signatures from both parties.
Estimate Template: Free Download
In this article
- Estimate Template vs Estimate Sheet
- Different Types of Estimate Templates
- How to Make an Estimate Template in SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor)
- Top 7 Free Estimate Templates
Estimate Template vs Estimate Sheet
While an estimate template is also often referred to as an estimate sheet, there is a difference between the two. When writing an estimate, cost estimators may fill out a template which can come in many forms such as PDF or Excel files. On the other hand, an estimate sheet specifically refers to a type of estimate template in the form of Excel or Google sheets. In some instances, it already contains certain formulas to make it easier for users to generate estimates.
Different Types of Estimate Templates
One of the most common problems when making an estimate is a lack of clarity in the scope of work, especially for large infrastructure projects. Construction contractors and professional service providers alike look for particular templates that meet their company requirements, branding, and customer needs. Apart from their file format, estimate templates also come in various kinds which can be categorized by general use, industry operations, and specific application:
Type 1: General Use
Estimate templates that comprise the general use category covers the most basic elements of estimation such as the list breakdown, total cost, and payment terms. They are widely used for a quick and simple cost estimation of a job, project, or service. Since these templates generally apply to any type of work to be done, most entrepreneurs and employees consider them for initial use.
Type 2: Industry Operations
Contractors operating in distinct economic sectors such as construction and professional services utilize estimate templates that adhere to certain industry standards. For example, the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) published the Standard Estimating Practice (SEP) as a reference manual on estimating construction projects. Explaining an estimation classification based on five levels of accuracy, construction estimate templates involve industry-specific components like schematic designs and detailed specifications.
More examples of these templates cover business operations in auto or car repair servicing, home repair and remodeling, landscaping, commercial cleaning, and demolition, among others.
Type 3: Specific Application
This type likely accounts for the most number of estimate templates available in the market. They pertain to exact use cases within a particular industry, addressing a more specific area of cost estimates. Flooring, siding, drywall, painting, and roofing estimate templates are specific applications of construction, home repair, or remodeling.
Other examples include snow removal and pressure washing estimate templates under the commercial cleaning industry and lawn care and tree trimming estimate templates under the landscaping industry. Essentially, they constitute a clearly defined scope of work so these templates deal with case-specific information such as pricing per square foot on top of specialized services performed on the area covered.
How to Make an Estimate Template in SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor)
Making estimate templates can seem challenging and time-consuming at first, especially when it depends on a lot of different factors like the scope of work and industry standards. SafetyCulture features a template-building tool that makes it easier for contractors to create and customize estimate templates for free. Provide estimates like a pro with SafetyCulture—here are 3 effortless ways how:
- Download free pre-made templates from our shortlist below or search more from the SafetyCulture Public Library of industry templates.
- Upload up to 3 PDF, Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files and our team will convert these sample estimate forms into editable SafetyCulture templates for free.
- Build your own estimate templates, align the look with your branding, and take advantage of our easy-to-use drag-and-drop template builder by signing up for a free account today.
Top 7 Free Estimate Templates
Construction Estimate Template
This template is used by an Australian boutique builder for a basic estimate of minor works on site damages. Start by adding rooms to open the template fields and choose the exact location, specifying its length, width, and height with photographs of the room and damages. Then, if more than one trade class is required, select all that applies such as roofer, painter, concreter, etc. Finally, if more than one item per trade is required, type the item description, quantity, and measurement type with a photograph of the item for reference.
Job Estimate Template
Use this template to input the details of estimate, total amount, and additional notes. This template is used by a UK-based property management company, and also provides functionality for digital signatures, taking pictures, and attaching sketch plans, if required.
Contractor Estimate Template
This template is used by a well-established English contractor for offering an estimate of any work to be done. Fill it out with the general information needed such as the estimate date, customer name, address, and contact details with the job number (if applicable) and job description. List the materials required, indicate the person who is completing the quote, and specify the estimated price. Photos and drawings can also be attached in this template.
Cost Estimate Template
Use this template to instantly notify customers of changes to estimated cost of services. This template is used by America’s leading full-service moving company headquartered in Michigan. It displays a criteria for giving a new estimate, states the new time and price estimates with their respective reasons, and completes the template with the signatures of the customer and company representative.
Project Estimate Template
This template is used by an AU-based interior design company for creating an estimate request which comprehensively lists 15 segments such as certifier, builder, painting, flooring, and more. Every item has the feature to add any type of media like images and other files for easier reference.
Auto Repair Estimate Template
This template is used by a US-based energy utility company for estimating car repairs needed to ensure safe vehicle operation. Its sections contain spaces for vehicle and repair estimate descriptions, including USDOT requirements, photos of the problem, and signature of the mechanic performing the repairs.
SafetyCulture Content Specialist
Jona Tarlengco
