Guides for contractors
Practical answers on estimates, deposits, getting paid and codes. Written by a contractor who runs a crew, not by a marketing department.
How to write a contractor estimate that gets signed
What goes on a contractor estimate, in what order, and the mistakes that cost you the job. A working contractor's checklist, with an example.
Read the guideEstimate vs invoice: the difference, and when to send each
An estimate is what the job will cost. An invoice is what the client owes now. When each one goes out, what changes between them, and how a quote and a bid fit in.
Read the guideHow much deposit should a contractor ask for?
What deposit is normal on residential work, which states cap it, how to word it on the estimate, and how to collect it the same day the client signs.
Read the guideHow to get paid faster as a contractor
Six habits that shorten the gap between finishing the job and the money landing: invoice the same day, take cards, set a due date, follow up on a schedule.
Read the guideHow to send an estimate by text message
Why texting an estimate beats emailing it, what to write in the message, and how to send one the client can read and sign on their phone without an attachment.
Read the guideWhere to find the building codes for your state, free
How building codes are adopted in the US, where to read the code that applies to your job without buying the book, and who to ask when the city amends it.
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