The short version
A general contractor quote fixes a price for a scope that includes subcontractors, materials and a schedule. A general contractor quote is a fixed offer: it names the scope, the price, what is not included, and the date the price is good until.
Open the quote generator for general contractorsScope of work for the base package
The example quote is for a defined remodel phase with crew days, materials at cost and a separate markup line. The wording under each line is the kind of scope sentence you can copy and edit. Unit prices are example rates from the starter lines in the quote generator, not market prices, so replace them with your own.
| Included in the base price | Qty | Unit | Unit price | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Site preparation and set-upProtect floors and surfaces, set out the work area, arrange access and put temporary safety measures in place. | 1 | job | $450.00 | $450.00 |
| LaborTrades on site for the day, including supervision and coordination of any subcontractors. | 10 | day | $320.00 | $3,200.00 |
| Materials and supplies, at costEverything bought in for the job, from lumber and fasteners to consumables. Receipts available on request. | 2 | job | $1,200.00 | $2,400.00 |
| Materials markup (15%)Covers sourcing, handling and warranty on materials supplied for the job, shown separately from cost. | 2 | job | $180.00 | $360.00 |
| Waste removal and site cleanDumpster or van loads removed and the site swept and left usable at the end of the work. | 2 | job | $180.00 | $360.00 |
Optional add-ons
Options keep the base price clear and let the client say yes to extras without reopening the quote.
| Option the client can add | Qty | Unit | Unit price | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two extra crew days for a punch list | 2 | day | $320.00 | $640.00 |
Worked quote total
The base price is the offer. Options are added only when the client accepts them. The tax rate is an example only.
| Quote total | Base only | Base plus options |
|---|---|---|
| Base price | $6,770.00 | $6,770.00 |
| Options | $0.00 | $640.00 |
| Sales tax at an example rate of 8% | $541.60 | $592.80 |
| Quoted total | $7,311.60 | $8,002.80 |
Example payment schedule
A 30, 40 and 30 split is shown as an example. Choose a split that fits the size of the job and the cost of materials you carry.
| Payment | Share | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit when the quote is accepted | 30% | $2,193.48 |
| When demolition and rough work are finished | 40% | $2,924.64 |
| When the punch list is complete | 30% | $2,193.48 |
| Total, base only | 100% | $7,311.60 |
Validity and acceptance
State a validity date, for example that the price holds for 30 days from the quote date. Then add an acceptance line: the client signs and dates the quote, or replies in writing, and the deposit starts the schedule. A signature block is a name, a signature and a date for the client and for you.
Exclusions for a general contractor quote
- Work by trades not named in the scope.
- Items covered by allowances, where the difference is billed or credited.
- Architect or engineering fees.
- Furniture, appliances and decor.
Change orders
Every change is written, priced at the labor and markup rates on the quote, and signed before work on it starts.
Not ready to commit to a price?
A general contractor gives an estimate early, to see whether the project is in the client's range, and a quote once plans, allowances and subcontractor prices are in. If the scope is still open, start with the general contractor estimate template and give a range.
Start your general contractor quote
Pick the trade, set quantities and options for your own job, add your terms and download it. Nothing needs an account.
Open the quote generator for general contractorsRelated pages
Last reviewed by InvoiceTools, Houston, Texas, on 11 October 2026.