A clear estimate wins more jobs and prevents most disputes. It shows the customer exactly what they’re paying for and protects you if the job turns out bigger than described. Here’s what to include.
1. Your business details
Business name, logo, phone, email and address or service area. It should be obvious who sent it and how to reply.
2. Customer and property
The customer’s name, contact details and the service address — especially if it differs from their billing address.
3. Estimate number and dates
- Estimate number — so you can both refer to it.
- Issue date — when you sent it.
- Valid until — so an old price can’t be claimed months later.
- Service date — if one has been agreed.
4. Services, line by line
List each service with a short description, quantity and price — for example “Deep Cleaning — 1,800 sq ft, 3 bed / 2 bath” and separate lines for add-ons like inside the oven. Specific descriptions avoid “I thought that was included” conversations.
5. Discounts, tax and the total
Show the subtotal, any discount, sales tax (if your state and service require it) and the total. Show sales tax as its own line; rules differ by state, so check yours.
6. Payment terms
When payment is due, which methods you accept, and any deposit or cancellation fee.
7. Terms and conditions
The most important line for cleaning businesses:
“This estimate is based on the information provided. The final price may change if the scope of work or the condition of the property differs from what was described.”
Also consider: access arrangements, pets, what you don’t do (e.g. biohazards, heavy lifting), and breakages.
8. A place to accept
A signature and date line makes acceptance clear and turns the estimate into a simple agreement.
Checklist
- ☐ Business name, logo and contact details
- ☐ Customer name and service address
- ☐ Estimate number, issue date, valid-until date
- ☐ Each service with description and price
- ☐ Discount, sales tax and total
- ☐ Payment terms
- ☐ Terms, including the condition clause
- ☐ Signature line
The SoloQuote estimate generator includes all of these, and you can send a price straight from the estimate calculator.