# How to write a quote for a trade job (UK checklist) | BrewQuote

Source: https://brewquote.co.uk/guides/how-to-write-a-quote/

[Home](/) › [Guides](/guides/) › How to write a quote

# How to write a quote for a trade job

Updated 1 October 2026 · UK rules · Not tax advice: check anything unusual with your accountant.

A good quote wins the job and stops arguments later. It says exactly what you'll do, what it costs, and what happens if things change.

## The checklist

| Include | Why it matters |
| --- | --- |
| Your business name, address, phone and email | Looks professional, and the customer knows who they're dealing with. |
| Customer name and job address | Makes it clear who and where the quote is for. |
| Quote number and date | So you can both refer to it, and track versions if it changes. |
| A clear description of the work | The scope. Anything not listed isn't included. |
| Itemised labour and materials | Customers trust a breakdown, and it matters for CIS. |
| VAT, or “not VAT registered” | Avoids nasty surprises on the final bill. |
| Valid-until date | Protects you if material prices rise. |
| Deposit and payment terms | When you'll be paid, and what happens if they cancel. |
| How to accept | Make it easy: one link to accept and sign beats printing and scanning. |

## Homeowners: the 14-day right to cancel

If you agree a job with a homeowner away from your business premises, for example in their kitchen, or online, the Consumer Contracts Regulations usually give them 14 days to cancel. You should tell them about this right in writing and give them a cancellation form. If they want you to start within the 14 days, get them to ask for that in writing. If they then cancel, they pay for the work done so far.

Leave this out and the cancellation period can be extended by up to 12 months, and you may not be able to charge for work already done.

## Quote, estimate or tender?

A **quote** is a fixed price for a defined job. An **estimate** is an informed guess that can change. A **tender** is a formal bid, usually for commercial work. If you call it a quote, expect to be held to it.

BrewQuote builds all of this in: itemised lines from your voice note, VAT and CIS, your terms, the homeowner cancellation notice and form, and a link your customer can accept and sign. They can also ask for a change, and you can send an updated version on the same link.

## Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a quote and an estimate?

A quote is a fixed price for the work described. An estimate is your best guess, which can change. If you give a quote and the customer accepts it, you're generally held to that price for that scope of work.

How long should a quote be valid for?

Many trades use 30 days, because material prices change. Put the valid-until date on the quote.

Should I ask for a deposit?

It's common for larger jobs or when you're ordering materials. Put the deposit amount and when it's due in your terms so the customer agrees to it when they accept.

Is an electronically signed quote binding?

Electronic signatures are recognised in UK law. A quote accepted online with a signature and agreed terms is a clear record of the deal. For homeowners, include their 14-day right to cancel.

## Quote it in a minute with BrewQuote

Talk through the job, send a branded quote with VAT and CIS done, and get it signed online. Coming to iPhone and Android.