A good quote wins the job, covers your costs, and delivers a fair profit. A bad quote either loses the job (too high) or loses you money (too low). The skill is in accurate estimation and clear presentation.
Start with your direct costs: materials (get supplier quotes for the specific job, don't guess), labour (your hours multiplied by your charge-out rate, or subcontractor costs), equipment hire, and any permits or fees. Add a contingency allowance of 10-15% for unforeseen issues — in renovation and maintenance work, there are always surprises behind walls and under floors.
Your charge-out rate needs to cover more than just your hourly take-home pay. It must include: superannuation, insurance (public liability, workers comp, tool insurance), vehicle costs, consumables, unbillable time (travel, admin, quoting), training, annual leave provision, and business overheads (accounting, phone, software). A common formula: take your desired annual salary, add all business costs, divide by your billable hours per year (typically 1,400-1,600 for a solo tradie after holidays, sick days, admin, and quiet periods).
Present your quote professionally: itemise the work (scope, materials, labour) so the client can see what they're paying for. Specify inclusions and exclusions clearly. State your payment terms (deposit, progress payments, final payment). Include your ABN, licence number, and insurance details. A professional quote builds confidence and reduces price haggling.