Choose a date you can stand behind
A quote validity period gives the customer time to decide and gives you a clear point to review your price. There is no one period that suits every job. Consider supplier price changes, material availability, your schedule and how far ahead the work may start.
Use a calendar date such as “valid until 30 November” rather than “valid for a while”. If material prices are especially uncertain, check them before promising a long validity period.
Say what the date means
Make it clear whether the customer must accept by that date and when the work would be scheduled. An accepted quote may still need a separate start date. Explain any assumptions that could affect the price, such as access, measurements or product availability.
If the quote expires
- Check whether the scope is still the same.
- Refresh material and labour costs.
- Issue a new dated quote or revision.
- Ask the customer to accept the updated version before work starts.
Keep a record of changes
If the customer asks for extra work, describe and price the variation in writing. A clear record protects the relationship and helps both sides know which version they agreed to.