Estimate

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A contractor's written approximation of what a job will cost, given before the work starts. Not a fixed price unless it says so.

An estimate is the number a contractor gives after looking at the job: what it will probably cost, based on the scope as understood that day. It is a best guess from experience, and it can change if the job turns out to be different from what was seen.

In practice most residential contractors send a document called an estimate that is really a proposal: a scope, a price, terms, and a place to sign. Once the customer accepts it in writing, the price on it is the price for that scope. What keeps it honest is the scope: an estimate that says exactly what is included is one that holds up.

Related: Quote · Proposal · Scope of work

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