Professional Cost Estimation

Free Estimate Generator

Create detailed cost estimates for projects, repairs, and services. Professional templates with material pricing, labor calculations, and instant PDF delivery.

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Estimates Explained

What is an Estimate?

An estimate is a detailed breakdown of projected costs for a project, repair, or service. It shows materials, labor, and other expenses to help clients understand total costs before work begins.

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Separate line items for materials, labor, equipment, and overhead costs.

Pre-Work Planning

Helps contractors plan resources and clients budget for projects.

Professional Documentation

Shows professionalism and builds client trust with transparent pricing.

ESTIMATE #EST-2025-001
Materials £850.00
• Tiles, adhesive, grout
Labor (16 hours) £640.00
• @ £40/hour
Equipment Hire £120.00
Total Estimate £1,610.00

Valid for 30 days • Final costs may vary

Types of Estimates You Can Create

SendInvoice supports all major estimate types for contractors, tradespeople, and service providers

Construction

Building, renovation, and construction project estimates

  • Material quantities and costs
  • Labor hours and rates
  • Equipment and machinery hire
  • Subcontractor costs

Repair

Maintenance and repair work estimates

  • Parts and components
  • Diagnostic fees
  • Repair labor costs
  • Testing and warranty

Service

Professional service cost estimates

  • Hourly or daily rates
  • Project milestones
  • Deliverable-based pricing
  • Expenses and travel

Installation

Equipment and system installation estimates

  • Product/equipment costs
  • Installation labor
  • Configuration and testing
  • Training and documentation

Landscaping

Garden and outdoor project estimates

  • Plants and materials
  • Site preparation
  • Labor and equipment
  • Maintenance period

Renovation

Remodeling and upgrade project estimates

  • Demolition and removal
  • New materials and finishes
  • Specialist trades
  • Permits and inspections

Powerful Estimate Features

Everything you need to create professional, detailed cost estimates

Detailed Line Items

Break down costs with unlimited line items for materials, labor, equipment, and overhead.

Automatic Calculations

Quantities multiplied by unit prices, subtotals, taxes, and grand totals calculated automatically.

PDF Export

Download professional PDF estimates ready for email or print with your branding.

Custom Branding

Add your company logo, colors, and business details to all estimates.

Multi-Currency

Create estimates in 150+ currencies with automatic formatting.

Convert to Invoice

Once approved, convert estimates to invoices with one click.

Start Creating Professional Estimates Today

Join thousands of contractors using SendInvoice for accurate cost estimation

Create Your First Estimate

Free • No credit card required • Professional templates

Estimate FAQs

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

An estimate is an approximate cost projection that may change based on actual work requirements. A quote is a fixed price offer that commits you to the stated price. Estimates give clients a general idea of costs, while quotes are binding agreements.

Can I convert an estimate to an invoice? ⌄

Yes! Once work is completed, you can convert your estimate to an invoice with one click. All line items, pricing, and customer details carry over automatically. Adjust quantities or add extra work as needed before sending.

How detailed should my estimates be? ⌄

Include enough detail so clients understand what they're paying for. Break down major cost categories (materials, labor, equipment), show quantities and unit prices, and include notes about assumptions or exclusions. More detail builds trust and reduces disputes.

Can I add markup or profit margin to estimates? ⌄

Yes. Add your markup as a separate line item (e.g., "Overhead & Profit 20%") or build it into your unit prices. Many contractors add 15-30% markup to cover overhead, profit, and contingencies. Be transparent or discrete based on your pricing strategy.

How long are estimates valid for? ⌄

Set a validity period based on your industry and material price stability. Common periods are 30 days for general work, 7-14 days for volatile pricing (fuel, materials), or 60-90 days for complex projects. Always state the validity period clearly on the estimate.