Free template
Quote template for NZ tradies
What a professional New Zealand trade quote needs to include — and the layout to copy. Written for plumbers, sparkies, builders, and every trade that prices jobs.
The 8 things every NZ quote should have
- 1
Your business details. Trading name, contact details, and your GST number if registered.
- 2
The customer and the site. Who the quote is for and the address the work happens at.
- 3
A clear scope. Line items for labour and materials — what you WILL do, in plain English.
- 4
Exclusions. What the price does NOT cover (e.g. gib repair after rewiring, council fees). Most disputes start here.
- 5
GST treatment. Whether prices are GST-inclusive or plus GST — stated, not assumed.
- 6
Validity period. How long the price stands, e.g. "valid 30 days". Materials prices move.
- 7
Deposit and payment terms. Deposit required, progress payments, and when the balance is due.
- 8
Variations clause. One line saying extra work is priced and agreed in writing before it starts.
Example layout
Smith Plumbing Ltd
027 123 4567 · smith@example.co.nz · GST 123-456-789
QUOTE #Q-0042
14 July 2026 · Valid 30 days
For: Jane Doe, 12 Example St, Christchurch
Job: Replace hot water cylinder
| Description | Qty | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| 180L cylinder, supplied | 1 | $1,150.00 |
| Labour — removal & install | 5 hrs | $575.00 |
| Disposal of old cylinder | 1 | $60.00 |
Subtotal: $1,785.00
GST (15%): $267.75
Total (incl. GST): $2,052.75
Excludes: repair of wall linings. Any extra work priced and agreed in writing before it starts. 30% deposit on acceptance; balance due 7 days after completion.
Copy this layout into Word or a spreadsheet — or let QuoteMate build it branded, numbered, GST-calculated, and emailed to the customer with an accept button, in about two minutes.
Common questions
- Is a quote legally binding in NZ?
- A quote is an offer to do defined work for a fixed price. Once the customer accepts it, it forms part of the contract — you generally cannot raise the price for the quoted scope. That is why exclusions and a variations clause matter.
- What's the difference between a quote and an estimate?
- A quote is a fixed price for a defined scope. An estimate is an educated guess and the final bill can differ (within reason under the Consumer Guarantees Act). Say which one you are giving — the word you use matters if there is a dispute.
- How long should a quote be valid for?
- 30 days is standard for trade work in NZ. If material prices are volatile, 7 or 14 days is fair — just state it on the quote.
- Should I include GST in my quoted price?
- For homeowners, quote GST-inclusive totals — it is the clearest and safest under the Fair Trading Act. For commercial work, plus-GST is common. Either way, write which one it is on the quote.
- Do I need the customer to sign the quote?
- A signature is ideal but any clear written acceptance works — an email or text saying "go ahead" referencing the quote. Keep it with the job file.