Job Cost Calculator
Profit is what is left after costs are covered. If you underestimate your costs, you are paying the customer for the privilege of doing their work. This guide helps you identify and calculate the hidden costs of any job.
Key pricing factors
Direct Materials
The exact items required for the job. Do not forget delivery charges from suppliers.
Hidden Consumables
Screws, drill bits, sealant, masking tape, and dust sheets. These eat away at profits if ignored.
Waste Disposal
Skip hire, commercial tip fees, and the time taken to load and transport waste.
Admin Time
The hours spent viewing the job, pricing, sourcing materials, and invoicing.
Example: Garden Clearance & Fence Repair
- Labour (2 days @ £200)
- £400.00
- Fence Panels & Posts
- £180.00
- Postcrete & Fixings
- £35.00
- Skip Hire / Waste Disposal
- £220.00
- Total Job Cost
- £835.00
- Markup (20%)
- £167.00
- Final Quote
- £1002.00
Waste disposal can severely impact a quote if not accounted for properly at commercial rates.
Practical quoting guidance
- Never absorb waste disposal costs. Commercial tipping is expensive and must be passed on.
- Check if parking permits are required and include them in your cost breakdown.
- For multi-day jobs, account for time lost to bad weather if working outdoors.
Frequently asked questions
Should I markup my materials?
Yes. You spend time sourcing, collecting, and guaranteeing those materials. A 10-20% markup covers this effort.
How do I handle fuel costs?
Either charge a set mileage rate (e.g., 45p per mile) for jobs outside your local area, or bake a standard travel allowance into your day rate.