Do you charge for estimates, and has it worked for your business?

YES. We charge an onsite estimate fee, and we’ve done it this way since 2018—long before COVID made everyone rethink how they run their business.

We actually provide free estimates remotely and turn those around within 24 hours. If someone wants us to come out in person, that’s considered a paid onsite consultation.

The reason is simple:
Most people requesting estimates aren’t hiring — they’re price shopping, using numbers for leverage, or trying to “see what it might cost.” That time adds up fast, and it’s not sustainable to absorb it for free.

Charging for onsite estimates has been one of the best decisions we’ve made:

• It immediately filters out tire-kickers
• It sets expectations that our time and expertise have value
• It dramatically improves our close rate on onsite visits

The customers who are serious have no issue paying, and the ones who push back usually confirm exactly why the fee exists in the first place.

We’re not charging to give a number! We’re charging for experience, scope clarity, and professional evaluation. And if a customer doesn’t see value in that, they’re not the right fit for our business anyway.