How to write a handyman estimate
Updated November 1, 2026 · QuoteCubby
A checklist of what to put in every estimate, example wording you can adapt, and tips that prevent “I thought that was included” conversations.
What every handyman estimate should include
- Your business name and contact, the client’s name and the job address.
- The scope, task by task, in plain words: what you’ll do and where.
- What’s not included: painting after a drywall patch, hauling away old fixtures, permits.
- Materials: either listed with prices or as an allowance, and whether your markup is included.
- The price: fixed for the listed work, or hourly with an estimated range of hours.
- Timing: when you can start and about how long it takes.
- Changes: what happens if you find hidden damage or the client adds work.
- Payment terms: deposit for materials if you take one, when the balance is due, how they can pay.
- How long the price is valid.
Example estimate (wording you can adapt)
Scope: Replace the bathroom faucet and recaulk the tub. Includes removing the old faucet and caulk and cleaning up.
Not included: Repairs to shutoff valves or pipes behind the wall, if needed.
Materials: Faucet and caulk, $60 plus markup = $72 (included below).
Price: $325 for the work listed.
Changes: If I find damage or a problem I can’t see now, I’ll stop and give you a price before doing more.
Payment: Due when the job is done.
Valid for: 14 days.
Example only, using the calculator’s starter numbers: $75 per hour target, 20 minutes of setup and cleanup, a 15% buffer for surprises, $3 of consumables per working hour, 20% material markup, 10 round-trip miles at $0.35 per mile, 20 minutes of driving, $125 minimum, rounded up to $5. These are not market rates. The example uses 2.5 hands-on hours and $60 of materials.
Tips
- Use the client’s words for the problem and your words for the fix.
- Take “before” photos and keep them with the estimate.
- Send it in writing, even after a phone call, so both sides have the same list.
The calculator writes the client text for you (in English or Spanish) and can send a share link with the price and the job, without your costs or rates.
Check your own numbers
The free QuoteCubby handyman calculator prices a job from your estimated hours, difficulty and timing, adds materials with your markup, consumables, supply runs and the drive, and shows what you really earn per hour.
Open the free handyman calculatorFAQ
What’s the difference between an estimate and a quote?
People use the words loosely. What matters is saying clearly whether your price is fixed for the listed work or an estimate that can change, and what would change it.
Should I charge for estimates?
Some handymen give free estimates for normal jobs and charge for long site visits or detailed plans. Whatever you choose, say it before you go out.
How long should an estimate be valid?
Long enough for the client to decide, short enough that material prices don’t move much. The calculator starts at 14 days, only as an example.
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