A quote is a fixed price
A quote sets out a specific price for specific work. Once the customer accepts it, you've generally formed a contract at that price — you can't raise it later simply because the job took longer than you thought.
You can still charge more if the customer asks for extra work beyond what the quote described, or if the quote made clear that certain conditions would change the price. That's why the description of works on a quote is worth as much care as the number.
An estimate is an informed guess
An estimate is your best assessment of likely cost, not a binding offer. It's the honest option when you genuinely can't see the full scope — an unopened wall, an unknown fault, a survey not yet done.
The trade-off is that estimates give customers less certainty, and vague estimates are a common source of disputes. If you use one, say clearly what it's based on and what could change it.
Protecting yourself either way
- Describe the works precisely — what's included, and explicitly what isn't
- State what you've assumed (access, existing condition, materials specified)
- Give the quote an expiry date so material price rises don't trap you
- Say how variations will be priced and agreed before they're done
- Put it in writing and keep the accepted version — a verbal quote is still binding but much harder to prove