Free contractor worksheet · Updated October 28, 2026
Free handyman estimate template: quote a job without forgetting the details
A useful estimate tells the customer what you will do, what it will cost, what is excluded, and what happens if the scope changes. Start with the free CSV below; you can open it in a spreadsheet and replace every sample number. No signup required.
Includes illustrative labor, material, travel and disposal rows plus blank rows. The file contains no formulas, macros, personal data or customer records. It is not a contract or invoice.
What to put on a handyman estimate
Use the same fields every time so the customer can compare your estimate with the finished work. Keep a copy of the accepted version.
- Business and customer: your business name, contact details, customer's name and job address.
- Estimate reference and date: a unique estimate number, issue date, and a validity period you choose.
- Scope: exactly what you will repair, install, remove or protect, including the quantities and materials assumed.
- Line items: labor, materials, travel, disposal, subcontractors and any applicable charges shown clearly.
- Exclusions: what is not included, such as hidden damage, permit fees, structural repairs or additional trips.
- Timing: an estimated start window, expected duration and factors that could change either.
- Changes and approval: how unexpected work is priced and who must approve it before you proceed.
- Payment terms: when payment is due, accepted payment methods and any deposit terms you have agreed upon.
Example: a small repair estimate
The figures below are illustrative, not recommended market rates. Replace them with your own labor assumptions, supplier quotes, travel costs and business expenses.
| Item | Quantity | Unit price | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | 4 hours | $65 | $260 |
| Materials | 1 lot | $90 | $90 |
| Travel | 1 trip | $30 | $30 |
| Disposal | 1 trip | $25 | $25 |
| Illustrative subtotal | — | — | $405 |
Taxes, permit fees, and other legally required terms depend on the work and jurisdiction. Confirm the applicable rules instead of copying a generic tax line. An estimate is not automatically a binding contract; use an appropriate written agreement where required.
Do not confuse markup with margin
If you are building a quote from costs rather than a pre-set labor rate, separate direct job costs from an overhead allowance before adding a target gross margin. For example, $180 direct labor + $90 materials + $30 travel + $40 allocated overhead = $340 estimated cost. A 20% target gross margin gives $340 ÷ (1 − 0.20) = $425 estimated price. Adding 20% markup to $340 would produce $408 instead. Neither calculation guarantees a profit.
Do not count overhead twice if your hourly rate already includes it. For a different job, use our minimum job-price calculator and check the assumptions before sending a number to a customer.
Quoting exterior cleaning rather than repairs? Use our free pressure washing estimate worksheet for surface-specific scope and access checks.
Write the scope so change orders are not a surprise
Instead of “repair bathroom,” specify the fixture, quantity, finish, access conditions, and cleanup. Example: “Replace one customer-supplied vanity faucet using accessible existing shutoff valves; test for leaks and remove packaging.” Then state exclusions such as concealed plumbing damage, shutoff-valve replacement and wall repair. If new work is discovered, document the revised price and obtain approval before proceeding.
When a spreadsheet stops being enough
A CSV is useful for a small number of straightforward estimates. It does not automatically track approvals, revisions, scheduling, reminders, invoices or whether the customer paid. If you regularly re-enter the same customer details, lose estimate versions, or forget follow-ups, compare a lightweight invoicing app with job-management software. The right answer depends on your actual workflow, not a vendor's feature list.
Compare invoicing apps with job-management software →
Run the free five-task software trial scorecard →
Check whether QuoteIQ's subscription could pay for itself →
Estimate template FAQ
Can I send the CSV directly to a customer?
You can, but first replace all examples, add your business and customer details, confirm the scope and totals, and export a readable PDF. The starter CSV is a worksheet, not a finished customer-facing agreement.
How long should an estimate be valid?
Choose a realistic validity period based on material-price volatility, workload and your supplier quotes. State the date clearly rather than implying the price is guaranteed indefinitely.
Should I include sales tax?
Only according to the rules applicable to your jurisdiction, business and work. Tax treatment varies; consult qualified local guidance instead of copying a generic percentage.
Is a quote the same as an invoice?
No. A quote or estimate describes proposed work and price before approval; an invoice requests payment for work or agreed milestones. Keep the accepted estimate and any approved changes with the invoice.