It depends on the company or industry. Sometimes the 2 are used interchangeably. Usually, however, the 2 differ in terms of exactness. Estimates are typically approximate costs, whereas quotes are an exact number.

Both! We offer free phone estimates to get the process started, then offer exact quotes to our clients, and receive client approval on those quotes before beginning any work. This way, our clients know exactly what we will do and how much it will cost beforehand.

We happily offer free estimates based on client descriptions and pictures. These are typically “ball-park” numbers and help our clients decide if they want to proceed with their project.

If the client likes the estimate, we may ask more questions or come to see the project before offering an exact quote. The work required to produce this quote would be incorporated into the final invoice.

If the customer chooses not to move forward with the work, then they would be charged separately for any visits required to prepare the quote, usually at a rate of $195 (our minimum charge).

We carefully plan and anticipate the possible costs of a project when rendering a quote. As such, any complications or delays we failed to anticipate will be addressed at no additional cost to our clients. We promise to perform the work described at the cost quoted.

There are a couple of rare exceptions:
-For some projects, quotes may contain clearly-defined contingencies where the price may change. Even then, the customer will be made aware of the possibility ahead-of-time and be notified of any changes immediately.
-When the client themselves asks for additional work during the project. Then the quote can be altered or a new quote made to address the additional request.

Yes. Any service requiring on-site work will cost, at a minimum, $195 plus any materials costs. The exact price would be quoted and approved prior to work being done.

Sometimes we cannot quote or even estimate a repair because the client does not know the exact issue. If we cannot help the client diagnose the issue remotely, we may have to come out in person to investigate. In such cases, the charge for the diagnostic/consultation visit would be waived if the client chooses to proceed with the quoted repair. If the customer chooses not to move forward with the work, then a diagnostic fee would be charged,, typically at our minimum fee of $195.