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Plumber Quoting Tips: How to Quote Plumbing Jobs Without Losing Money

Plumbing quotes that protect your margins. Learn how to quote hot water systems, blocked drains, and bathroom renovations accurately.

16 January 20265 min read
plumberplumbingquotinghot water

Plumbing jobs can go from simple to complex fast.

That's why accurate quoting matters — one missed item can wipe out your profit.

Plumbing jobs where margin leaks happen

  • **Hot water system replacements** — forgetting tempering valves, pipe modifications, or disposal
  • **Blocked drain callouts** — not charging for camera inspections or difficult access
  • **Bathroom renovations** — underestimating rough-in time and coordination
  • **Tap replacements** — missing isolation valve upgrades
  • **Gas fitting** — not including compliance certificates

How to quote plumbing jobs accurately

1. Build a pricing library for common jobs

  • Hot water replacement (electric): 3-4 hours + materials
  • Hot water replacement (gas): 4-5 hours + materials
  • Blocked drain (standard): 1-2 hours
  • Blocked drain (jet required): 2-3 hours + equipment

2. Always include these items

  • Travel time and callout fee
  • Disposal of old units
  • Compliance certificates
  • Parts and fittings (itemised)
  • Contingency for unknowns

3. Quote on-site when possible

The faster you quote, the more jobs you win.

Customers call multiple plumbers. The first professional quote usually wins.

Stop losing money on plumbing quotes

A quoting system that uses your pricing library means:

  • Consistent quotes every time
  • No forgotten items
  • Professional PDFs that win jobs

Quote plumbing jobs faster → [Try QuoteOS for Plumbers](/trades/plumbers)

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