How much deposit should a builder ask for?

Industry practice varies, but 10–25% is generally considered reasonable for a deposit on building work. Asking for more than 25% upfront may deter clients. Stage payments tied to milestones (e.g. foundations, roof, completion) are the standard approach for larger projects.

Does a builder's quote need to include VAT?

If the builder is VAT registered, the quote must state whether the price includes or excludes VAT. Many small builders are not VAT registered (turnover below £90,000), in which case no VAT applies. Always clarify VAT status upfront to avoid disputes.

What happens if the building work costs more than quoted?

If you gave a fixed-price quotation, you must honour that price regardless of actual costs — this is the legal nature of a quote. The only exception is if the client requests additional work (variations), which should be agreed in writing at an additional cost before proceeding.

Can a homeowner withhold final payment if work is defective?

A homeowner can withhold a reasonable proportion of the final payment for defective or incomplete work, but they cannot refuse to pay the entire amount if most of the work has been completed satisfactorily. The withheld amount should be proportionate to the cost of rectifying the defects.

Do I need a written contract for building work?

While verbal contracts are legally valid, a written quotation or contract is strongly recommended. It protects both parties by recording exactly what was agreed. For projects over a few thousand pounds, a written contract with a clear scope, price, payment schedule and timeline is essential.

Builder / Tradesperson Quotation Template

Create a professional builder or tradesperson quotation with our free UK template.

FreePDF & Word

Your data stays on your device — nothing is sent to any server.

Your Details

Builder / Tradesperson Name*

Company Name (if applicable)

Your Business Address*

Phone Number*

Email Address

Recipient Details

Client Name*

Client Address*

project

Property Address (where work will be carried out)*

If different from the client's address

Quote Reference*

Date*

Detailed Description of Works*

pricing

Materials Cost (£)*

Labour Cost (£)*

Total Cost (£)*

VAT Status*

schedule

Proposed Start Date*

Expected Completion Date*

Payment Details

Payment Schedule*

Document Preview

BUILDER'S QUOTATION From: [builderName] [builderAddress] Tel: [builderPhone] To: [clientName] [clientAddress] Quote Reference: [quoteNumber] Date: [quoteDate] Property Address: [propertyAddress] -------------------------------------------------- SCOPE OF WORKS -------------------------------------------------- [workDescription] -------------------------------------------------- PRICE BREAKDOWN -------------------------------------------------- Materials: £[materialsCost] Labour: £[labourCost] -------------------------------------------------- TOTAL: £[totalCost] VAT: [vatNote] -------------------------------------------------- PROJECT SCHEDULE -------------------------------------------------- Proposed Start Date: [startDate] Expected Completion Date: [completionDate] -------------------------------------------------- PAYMENT SCHEDULE -------------------------------------------------- [paymentSchedule] -------------------------------------------------- TERMS & CONDITIONS -------------------------------------------------- 1. This quotation is valid for 30 days from the date above. 2. Once accepted, this quotation forms a binding agreement. 3. Any variations to the scope of works must be agreed in writing. 4. The works will be carried out with reasonable care and skill in accordance with the Consumer Rights Act 2015. 5. Any materials supplied will be of satisfactory quality and fit for purpose. 6. The completion date is an estimate and may be affected by weather, access issues or unforeseen conditions. 7. Any defects notified within 6 months of completion will be rectified at no additional cost. Accepted by: ________________________ Signature: ________________________ Date: ________________________

Important Notes

Legal Disclaimer

For work carried out for consumers (homeowners), the Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies. Services must be performed with reasonable care and skill (s.49), within a reasonable time if no time is agreed (s.52), and for a reasonable price if no price is agreed (s.51). Materials supplied must be of satisfactory quality (s.9) and fit for purpose (s.10). Consumers have the right to require the trader to redo unsatisfactory work at no additional cost (s.55). The Limitation Act 1980 gives clients 6 years to bring a claim for breach of contract. Builders should also be aware of their obligations under the Building Regulations 2010 and the requirement to obtain building control approval where applicable.

This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For complex legal matters, we recommend consulting a qualified solicitor.

Frequently Asked Questions

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