Proposal-Estimate-Deposit?

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Amps

Electrical Contractor
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Electrical, Security, Networks and Everything Else.
I mostly use the Joist app to write up and send estimates either by text or email. One of the things I like about it is that there is a way for the customer to sign it from a smartphone, tablet or computer. Once in a while I use the NCR paper proposal form when in person and I can quickly write up, get signed and get a deposit.
On Joist when the amount is over $500.00, I clearly indicate that it must be signed, and a deposit is required. There are instructions on how to pay it, by using Paypal, Zelle or a check. I also write out that doing both is necessary for scheduling.
Every so often I run into someone who messages me that the estimate looks good, and I have the job, yet they fail to sign the estimate and send a deposit. And of course, their job has to get done ASAP. It is very irritating because I know they had to read it. I have to remind them and sometimes it works, sometimes not. I turn down jobs when I don't get a signature and deposit, except when it's repeat work where I have established a good relationship with the customer, and I don't ask for either.
I know that a signed estimate is not really a contract but it's better than nothing and I believe a deposit to cover material costs is necessary.
Do any of you use a similar process, or have a better idea? Thanks in advance.
 
The company I work for will not do any work at all for anybody without a purchase order. And for most customers that means in writing, and not just a purchase order number.

Or they can pay in advance by credit card.
 
Sometimes I wind up coordinating a time to meet at their place to pick up a check, more of my time wasted, which was my whole point in in using Paypal, etc. I guess it's the nature of the beast.
 
Amps said:
And of course, their job has to get done ASAP.
Click to expand...
I've had to explain to people that ASAP means as soon as possible. Not at all the same as STAT which means immediately.

If someone tells me ASAP, that usually neans I have the go-ahead to put it on the back burner. Thankfully I'm not really taking end-users anymore.

As for deposit and signature, that's your protocol and you have it for a reason.

I sub from GCs, and there's really no such thing as a deposit unless it's really a big ticket purchase. I've been 15 years now with no deposits, even to end-users

But I have a buddy who works with end-users and 100% of the time it's a no-go without money in hand. That's what makes him comfortable, and he simply won't deviate.

That's what I'd say to you - if possible, run your operation in a manner that suits you. If you have good customers and regular work, don't be afraid to tell someone it's not a good fit
 
James L said:
I've had to explain to people that ASAP means as soon as possible. Not at all the same as STAT which means immediately.

If someone tells me ASAP, that usually neans I have the go-ahead to put it on the back burner. Thankfully I'm not really taking end-users anymore.

As for deposit and signature, that's your protocol and you have it for a reason.

I sub from GCs, and there's really no such thing as a deposit unless it's really a big ticket purchase. I've been 15 years now with no deposits, even to end-users

But I have a buddy who works with end-users and 100% of the time it's a no-go without money in hand. That's what makes him comfortable, and he simply won't deviate.

That's what I'd say to you - if possible, run your operation in a manner that suits you. If you have good customers and regular work, don't be afraid to tell someone it's not a good fit
Click to expand...
Thanks for the great advice !
 
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