What a good written quote should include

A good quote includes

• The business name, address, phone number and email, plus the date and how long the quote is valid.
• Your name and the address of the job.
• A clear description of the work, step by step, with the materials and finishes agreed.
• An itemised price: labour and materials listed separately, not just one total.
• What is not included, such as decorating, rubbish removal or extra tiles.
• Whether VAT is included.
• The start date and how long the work should take.
• The payment plan: how much, when and for what stage.
• How changes will be handled: any extra work agreed and priced in writing first.
• Insurance details and any guarantee that comes with the work.

Why itemising matters

A breakdown lets you see where the money goes and compare quotes. It also lets you change one part of the job without having to start again.

Check it matches what you discussed

Read the quote carefully against your brief. If something you talked about is missing, or something unexpected is there, ask before you accept. Ask for changes to be written in.

Accepting a quote

Accept in writing, keep a copy and make sure the quote and any agreed changes stay together. A message or email is better than a conversation if there is ever a disagreement.

Mistakes to avoid

• Accepting a quote that is only a total.
• Agreeing extras without a price.
• Paying more than the plan says without being sure the work is done.

Quotes you can compare

On GlowUpp, tradespeople send itemised quotes against the design you shared, so you can compare them in one place. It is free for homeowners. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.