Quote

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A fixed price for a defined scope of work, good for a stated period. Firmer than an estimate.

A quote is a price the contractor commits to for the work described, usually for 30 days. Where an estimate says "about," a quote says "this." If the scope changes, the quote changes with a written change order; otherwise the number stands.

Contractors use the words loosely and customers rarely know the difference, so the document matters more than the label. A page with the scope, one price, a timeline, terms and a signature line works as a quote whatever you call it.

Related: Estimate · Proposal · Change order

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