How to Estimate Remodeling Jobs

Always carry a working pen, your invoice/estimate book and calculator. Don't rely solely on your great math skills. Carry a ruler. Knowing material sizes will save you and your customer time and money. Make sure you understand what the customer wants done, before you go. Certain jobs will require estimating equipment; bring it with you the first time. Some standards are a ladder and a flashlight. A sketch pad and camera are valuable tools. Sketch the site design and dimensions. Take photographs for later reference.

See the site. Many people ask for phone estimates. This is a bad practice. Sites and material requirements may dramatically affect a quote. Talk the customer through the job specifics, including the type and style of materials wanted. Your measurement of dimensions may vary considerably from the customer's.

Figure out a time estimate for job completion. Only you know what your time is worth. Your time is more valuable (depending on your climate) during certain months out of the year, so if a client can wait until your slow season, you can afford to discount. Remember too, that a leaf-raking job does not pay the same as a tile-laying job. Level of skill required also governs price.

Calculate any material costs. Unless you are sure of material costs, you will need to speak with your supplier and check them based on the quality, quantity and style required. Supply houses can also be valuable resources for determine the value of a specific job. Ask them what their installers charge. If the customer is providing the materials, you can skip this step.

Write or print out the estimate. Answer customer questions. Set a date to begin. Collect a deposit.* Advise the customer of any delays. If you can't make the sale on the spot, follow up in 24 to 48 hours.