How to follow up on a contractor estimate
Many estimates go quiet, not dead. A short, timed follow-up wins back work you already did the effort for.
- Confirm it arrived. Check the customer received the estimate and can open it.
- Follow up within two days. A brief message asking if they have questions beats silence.
- Answer the real objection. Price, timing and trust are the usual ones. Ask which it is.
- Offer a clear next step. A date to start or a short call to walk through the scope.
- Set an expiry date. State how long the price is held so there is a reason to decide.
- Close the loop. Mark the estimate won or lost so your numbers stay honest.
Common questions
How many times should I follow up?
Two or three polite touches over a couple of weeks is common. Stop when the customer says no.
Should I discount to win it?
Only if it still pays. Check your margin first.
See also the contractor guides and free tools.
General information, not legal or financial advice. Verify with your attorney or accountant.
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