How to Quote Jobs as a Tradesperson in Ireland

A good quote does more than state a price. It shows professionalism, sets clear expectations, and gives the customer confidence to choose you over the competition. Here's how to quote jobs like a pro.

The Basics: What Every Quote Needs

A professional quote should include:

• Your business details: Name, address, phone, email, VAT number if registered
• Customer details: Name and site address
• Date and validity period: "Valid for 30 days" protects you from price changes
• Detailed scope of work: Be specific about what's included
• Itemised pricing: Labour, materials, VAT breakdown
• Payment terms: When payment is due, accepted methods
• Timeline: Expected start date and duration

Fixed Price vs. Day Rate: Which to Use

Fixed Price Quotes

Best for defined jobs where you can accurately estimate time and materials. Customers love them because they know the total upfront. The risk is on you if the job takes longer.

Use for: Standard installations, defined renovation work, routine repairs

Day Rate / Time and Materials

Better for jobs with unknowns — renovation work where you might find surprises, emergency callouts, or ongoing maintenance. Less risk for you, but customers may prefer a cap.

Use for: Diagnostic work, renovation with unknowns, ongoing maintenance contracts

Pricing Strategies That Work

Know Your Costs

Before quoting, calculate your true costs:

• Materials: Wholesale cost plus markup (typically 15-25%)
• Labour: Your hourly/daily rate, including time for travel
• Overheads: Van costs, tools, insurance, phone, etc.
• Profit margin: You're running a business, not a charity

The Three-Quote Rule

Many customers get three quotes. Being the cheapest isn't always winning — often it raises suspicion. Being mid-range with better presentation often wins over being cheapest with a scribbled note.

Anchor with Options

Offering three tiers (basic, standard, premium) helps customers feel in control and often pushes them toward the middle option. Example for a bathroom refit:

• Basic: Standard fixtures, vinyl flooring — €X
• Standard: Quality fixtures, tile flooring, heated rail — €Y
• Premium: High-end fixtures, underfloor heating, premium tiles — €Z

Writing Scope of Work That Protects You

Be specific. Vague quotes lead to disputes. Instead of "Rewire house," write:

"Full rewire of 3-bed semi-detached property including:
- New consumer unit (RCBO protection)
- All new wiring to current regulations
- 12 double sockets, 8 light points, 2 external lights
- Certification and notification to Building Control

Excludes: Making good (plastering/decorating), moving furniture, floor lifting"

That last line matters. Explicitly stating what's excluded prevents misunderstandings.

Follow-Up: Don't Just Send and Forget

Most tradespeople lose jobs not because of price, but because they didn't follow up. After sending a quote:

• Call or text after 2-3 days: "Just checking you received the quote — any questions?"
• If no response after a week, follow up once more
• If you don't get the job, politely ask why — it's valuable feedback

Converting Quotes to Invoices

When the job's done, your invoice should match your quote. Using software like TradeTime, you can convert an accepted quote directly into an invoice — no retyping required.

The faster you invoice after completing work, the faster you get paid. Ideally, send the invoice before you leave the site.