Guides

Straightforward advice on quoting, invoicing and getting paid, written for tradespeople rather than accountants. No jargon, no padding, just what to write and what to do next.

• How to Write a Quote for a Building JobWhat a quote commits you to, and how to structure one properly
• Quote vs Estimate vs InvoiceWhat each one means, and why mixing them up causes disputes
• How to Price a JobMaterials, labour and markup explained
• How to Price Garage WorkLabour times, parts margin and charging for diagnosis
• What to Include on a Trade InvoiceThe essential elements, and what's only needed if you're VAT registered
• How Long Should a Quote Be Valid For?Why an open-ended quote is a risk, and what to state instead
• Invoicing as a Sole TraderA plain-English guide to what your invoice needs
• When a Client Won't PayA calm escalation ladder, from reminder to small claims
• Chasing an Unpaid InvoiceThree example emails, one for each stage
• Templates vs Quoting SoftwareAn honest look at when each one earns its keep
• VAT on Trade InvoicesA plain guide to the UK rules, threshold and reverse charge
• Quoting a Bathroom Fitting JobStrip-out, fix stages, tiling and pricing for the unknown
• Quoting a Kitchen Fitting JobUnits, worktops, coordinating trades and appliance allowances
• Day Rate vs Fixed-Price QuotesWhich suits which job, and how to mix the two
• Handling a Discount RequestWhen to hold firm, and when a trade-off makes sense
• When a Job Runs Over BudgetSpotting it early and using a variation order properly
• Deposits and Staged PaymentsHow much to ask for, and when
• Self-Employed vs Limited CompanyUK tax, paperwork and liability, in plain terms
• Writing Terms and ConditionsPayment, cancellation, price changes and warranty