Free Remodeling Estimate Template & Generator

General remodeling estimates cover multi-trade renovations — anything from a room addition to a whole-house remodel. These estimates require careful coordination because changes in one trade affect others. Clarity up front prevents costly change orders later.

Materials

List structural materials (framing lumber, headers, sheathing), rough materials (drywall, insulation, electrical wire, plumbing pipe), and finish materials (flooring, trim, doors, windows, paint, hardware). For items the homeowner is selecting, include an allowance — e.g., "Flooring allowance: $5/sq ft" — so they understand what's budgeted.

Labor

Break labor by trade: demo, framing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC (if applicable), drywall, flooring, painting, and trim carpentry. For trades you subcontract, list the sub's cost plus your markup. Include project management as a line item — coordinating 4-8 trades on a remodel is a significant time investment.

Markup & Overhead

General remodeling contractors typically apply 25-45% markup depending on project size and complexity. Larger projects can work on lower percentages because the fixed overhead is spread over a bigger base. Include your GC fee or project management fee as a transparent line item.

Common Mistakes

The biggest mistake in remodeling estimates is not accounting for the unknown — once you open walls, you find surprises. Include a contingency line item (10-15% of the project total) and explain to the customer why it's there. Also don't forget permits, dumpsters, temporary protection for finished areas, and cleanup time.