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How to Create a Bulletproof Construction Estimate

Published on November 6, 2025

In construction, a "ballpark figure" is dangerous. If you forget to account for waste materials or permit fees, that money comes out of your pocket.

Itemize Everything

Never give a single line item like "Bathroom Remodel - $10,000." Break it down:

  • Materials: Tiles (sq ft + 10% waste), Grout, Fixtures.
  • Labor: Demolition hours, Installation hours, Cleanup.
  • Overhead: Transport, Permits, Dumpster rental.

Detailed estimates build trust with homeowners and protect you from "scope creep."

SmoothLedger provides free invoicing tools for professionals worldwide. Whether you are a freelancer in the UK, a contractor in the US, or a designer in Canada, our Invoice Generator templates are fully customizable to your currency and tax laws.