---
title: General contracting estimate template: free to copy
description: A free general contracting estimate template: sample lines for a home addition, what to include and mistakes to avoid.
url: https://getprospace.com/templates/general-contracting-estimate
updated: 2026-10-26
site: GetProSpace
---

# General contracting estimate template

A clear general contracting estimate says what you will do, how much of it, and what it costs, so the customer can say yes without a phone call. Use the example below as a starting point. You can copy it, or build and send it from GetProSpace in a few minutes.

- [Build it in GetProSpace](https://app.getprospace.com/login?ref=site)
- [See the pricing](https://getprospace.com/pricing)

## Example: home addition

Lines marked optional are add-ons the customer can choose, and they are not in the total until chosen.

| Item | Quantity | Price each | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation and framing | 1 | - | $28,500 |
| Roofing, windows and siding | 1 | - | $16,500 |
| Plumbing, electrical and HVAC rough-in | 1 | - | $13,800 |
| Interior finish and paint | 340 sq ft | $45 | $15,300 |
| Flooring allowance (optional) | 340 sq ft | $15 | $5,100 |
| **Total** | | | **$74,100** |

These numbers are only an example to show the layout. They are not a price list and not advice on what to charge. Use your own costs and your local rates.

## What to put in a general contracting estimate

- The scope by trade, with exclusions
- Allowances for anything not chosen yet, and how overages are handled
- Permits, plans and inspections, and who pays
- A schedule with the main phases
- Payment stages tied to progress
- How changes are written and approved

## Mistakes that cost general contractors money

- No allowances, so choices become price disputes
- Changes agreed on site and never written down
- Payment stages that do not match the work
- Subcontractors with no written scope

## Send it from GetProSpace

In GetProSpace you build the estimate from lines like these, with packages and optional add-ons, and add your logo, license number and contact details. You send it by text from your business line or by email. The customer opens a link, chooses their options and accepts it online, with no account. You get a PDF as well.

When it is accepted, you can bill the deposit in one step, and the same job holds the contract, photos and invoices. See the [general contracting page](https://getprospace.com/for/general-contracting) for how a whole job runs, or the [general contracting invoice template](https://getprospace.com/templates/general-contracting-invoice).

## Questions

### How long should a general contracting estimate be good for?

Long enough for the customer to decide, but short enough that material prices have not changed. A common choice is two to four weeks. In GetProSpace you set how many days an estimate is valid, and it stops being open after that.

### Can the customer accept it online?

Yes. They open the link, review the estimate, choose any options and accept it with their name. You are told when they do.

### Is this template really free?

Yes. Copy the example, or use the Markdown version of this page at the same address plus .md. You do not need an account.

## Send your next general contracting estimate in minutes

Start a 14-day free trial of Pro. No card needed.

- [Start your free trial](https://app.getprospace.com/login?ref=site)
- [Try the demo](https://app.getprospace.com/demo)

---

GetProSpace: GetProSpace is job-management software for contractors and home-service businesses in any trade: leads, estimates, e-signed contracts, scheduling, job photos, invoices, payment records and job profit in one app.
Support: support@getprospace.com