HVAC pros need to be prepared any season of the year. Repairs are needed in weather both hot and cold to keep homes comfortable. A repair or replacement can be an urgent need, so an HVAC pro should be ready.

Customers want to see an estimate before choosing to use your service. Not only will it help them better understand the costs associated, but it can also help you in better communicating the work that will be done. Here’s what must be included in your HVAC estimate.

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Why Are Estimates Important?

If you want to win a job, providing a free and quality estimate is important. Homeowners may be speaking to more than one HVAC pro, so you’ll need to make sure your estimate stands out from the rest. A properly prepared estimate can help you win more jobs. This means you’ve put in writing the specs of the project, as well as how much the costs will be, with any contact information attached. Once you’re done, read it over to see if there are any grammar mistakes and that all the information is correct.

See The Job In Person

It’s hard to provide an accurate HVAC quote without seeing the work that needs to be done. That’s why it’s important to go see the work in-person when asked for a quote. Be sure to show up on time and in your company attire. The way you present yourself is a level of professionalism that will be appreciated by the customer.

Provide A Summary Of Work

Often, homeowners give an HVAC pro a call to help with a problem or urgent repair. It’s up to you to provide them with accurate information about what the issue is and how it will be resolved. This is best done by providing the customer with a summary of what work will be done on their HVAC.

Even for a new installation, educating your customer is a great step to take in creating a great relationship with them for all their HVAC needs. The customer may have in mind a specific system or part that actually, might not be the best for the job. Let them know your recommendations in the summary.  In fact, this helps encourage customer trust that you’re the best pro for the job.

Show The Costs Of Project

An important part of an estimate is the actual costs of the project. It’s a good idea to show exactly what the customer will be spending their money on. Here are some things you’ll want to keep in mind:

New Parts & Materials

Make line items of the parts and materials that are needed. Try to be as accurate as possible, but leave room if something does come up. Be transparent with the items needed and costs here. Customers want to be informed of what they are paying for with your service.

Labor

Labor can be a cost that varies per project, based on hourly rates. You should account for any employees or subcontractors that will be working on the project as well. Many HVAC pros need to be licensed and certified, so payment should be determined based on experience.

Maintenance Warranties

For homes that are getting a new HVAC system, there are often warranties that come along with it. Often, the warranty is only valid if the system is getting professionally maintained once a year. You may want to let your customer know this in the estimate. It’s likely next time they need their HVAC serviced to ensure their warranty, they’ll give you a call.

Include Your Contact Information

If you spend time writing up an excellent estimate, you should be sure to include your contact information front and center. Once customers have looked over your estimate, they’ll know how to reach you to talk through the details or hire you for their HVAC job. Attaching a business card is always a good idea, so they have it handy when needed.

Share Why You’re Different

A well-written estimate is a great way to show the customer why your business stands out from the rest. It shows attention to detail and customer service. However, if you have any licenses, certifications, trade organization memberships or insurance, this is the place to display it. Being able to differentiate your business in this way can really help separate you from other estimates the customer may be receiving.

Conclusion

Estimates are an important part of winning your HVAC job. They help educate the customer on the work you’ll be doing and strengthen your relationship with them. A well-written estimate could be what helps you get more work in your area.

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