Free template
Plumbing estimate template
The structure of a plumbing estimate that covers your scope, protects you on unforeseen conditions, and gets approved before the materials arrive.
Sample plumbing estimate
| Item | Qty | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing permit and inspection | 1 | $320 |
| Rough-in supply lines — PEX (6 fixtures) | 6 | $900 |
| Rough-in drain lines — ABS (6 fixtures) | 6 | $780 |
| Master bath — tub, shower, dual vanity rough-in | 1 | $640 |
| Kitchen — sink and dishwasher rough-in | 1 | $380 |
| Laundry — washer hook-up and utility sink | 1 | $260 |
| Water heater — Bradford White 50-gal, 40K BTU, with expansion tank | 1 | $1,850 |
| Fixture trim-out and connections (6 fixtures) | 6 | $720 |
| Haul-away — old water heater | 1 | $80 |
| Subtotal | $5,930 | |
| 40% deposit to schedule and order materials | $2,372 |
Anatomy of a plumbing estimate
1. License and permit disclosure
Lead with your plumber license number and note that all work is code-compliant with a permit where required. Customers researching plumbers will skip unlicensed contractors — show yours upfront.
2. Rough-in plumbing
List supply and drain lines separately. Specify pipe material (PEX, copper, CPVC, ABS). If you are working behind walls or under a slab, note the access method and any concrete cutting as a separate line.
3. Fixture rough-in locations
List each rough-in location by room and fixture type. This is your scope boundary — anything outside this list is a change order.
4. Fixtures and materials
If you are supplying fixtures, list them by manufacturer and model. If the customer supplies fixtures, write 'labor only — customer-supplied fixture' so you are not responsible for defects or compatibility.
5. Trim-out and connections
Final connections, supply stops, pop-ups, and P-traps go here. Separate from rough-in so you have a clear phase handoff with the GC or drywall crew.
6. Water heater (if applicable)
List brand, model, and BTU or tank size. If replacing, include the haul-away of the old unit. Specify whether expansion tank is required by code — it usually is.
7. Permit and inspection
Pass through at actual cost. Slab work requires a separate rough-in inspection before the concrete is poured — list this as a scheduled milestone.
What makes a plumbing estimate win the job?
Frequently asked questions
Should rough-in and trim-out be on the same estimate?
Yes, but list them as separate line items. This gives you a clear phase boundary for billing and protects you if the trim-out is delayed by other trades.
How much deposit should a plumber charge?
For remodel and new construction work, 35–50%. Materials are significant. For service calls under $300, many plumbers charge the full amount at booking.
What if I find unexpected issues behind the wall?
Note it in your estimate: 'Estimate assumes no corroded supply lines or non-code conditions behind walls. Any discovered conditions will be documented and presented as a change order before proceeding.' That one sentence saves you on every difficult job.
Do I need a permit for a water heater replacement?
In most jurisdictions, yes. Always check local code and pull the permit. List it as a separate line item at actual cost.
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