Free Plumbing Estimate Templates (2026) - 3 Ready-to-Use

Plumbing estimates need to be right the first time. Unlike some trades where you can add a line item mid-project without much drama, plumbing work is either behind the walls or under the slab. Once you commit to a price and start cutting, there is no easy way to recover from a bad estimate.

The challenge for plumbers is that every house is different. Pipe sizes, routing, fixture locations, code requirements, and access conditions all change from job to job. A repipe in a single-story ranch with a crawl space is a completely different animal than a two-story colonial on a slab.

These templates cover three common plumbing jobs: a whole-house repipe, a new construction rough-in, and a residential service call. Each includes real line items, current material costs, and markup formulas you can adjust for your market.

---

How to Estimate a Plumbing Job

Whether you are bidding a bathroom remodel or a ground-up build, the estimating process follows the same steps. Here is how experienced plumbing contractors put together a winning bid.

Step 1: Review the Scope and Plans

Read every page of the plans if it is new construction. For remodel and service work, do a thorough site visit. Count every fixture, identify pipe sizes, and note access conditions. A detailed scope of work prevents arguments later.

Step 2: Do a Material Takeoff

List every item you need: pipe (by size and footage), fittings, valves, hangers, connectors, and specialty items like expansion tanks or backflow preventers. Get current pricing from your supplier. Material costs swing 10-20% year to year, so never use last year’s numbers.

Step 3: Estimate Labor Hours

Break the job into phases and estimate hours for each. A repipe has different phases than a new construction rough-in. Be honest about productivity. Two plumbers working in a tight crawl space move slower than two plumbers in an open basement. Add time for inspections, testing, and cleanup.

Step 4: Calculate Your Burdened Labor Cost

Your burdened rate includes wages, payroll taxes, workers comp, benefits, and vehicle costs. If you skip this step and just use the hourly wage, you will lose money on every job. Most plumbing companies land between $45 and $60 per hour fully burdened for a licensed plumber.

Step 5: Add Overhead and Profit

Overhead covers rent, insurance, office staff, trucks, tools, and marketing. Most plumbing companies run 12-18% overhead. Add your profit margin on top. For service work, 15-20% profit is standard. For new construction, 10-15% is more typical because volume makes up for thinner margins.

Step 6: Build and Send the Estimate

Put it all together in a professional format. Include your scope, exclusions, payment terms, and timeline. Estimating software makes this faster and lets you send from the job site while the conversation is still fresh. The faster you get the estimate in front of the customer, the better your close rate.

Step 7: Follow Up

Do not send the estimate and wait. Follow up within 48 hours. If the customer has questions, address them fast. Automated client reminders help you stay on top of pending estimates without manually tracking every one.

---

📥 Get Your Free Estimate Templates

Download Projul’s free construction estimate templates - built by contractors, ready to customize. Create professional estimates in minutes and win more jobs.

Download Free Templates →

---

How to Use These Templates

Each template is organized into materials, labor, and other costs. Here is how to get the most out of them:

1. Walk the job and count every fixture, valve, and connection point.
2. Measure pipe runs from the water main or sewer tie-in to each fixture location.
3. Check access conditions - crawl space, slab, open walls, or finished walls.
4. Get current material pricing from your plumbing supplier.
5. Apply your labor rate based on estimated hours per task.
6. Add overhead and profit to your direct costs.

The costs shown are mid-range U.S. estimates for 2026. PEX, copper, and PVC pricing fluctuates with commodity markets. Always verify with your supplier before sending a live estimate.

---

Template 1: Whole-House Repipe Estimate

This template covers a full repipe of a 2,000 sq ft, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home. Existing galvanized or polybutylene supply lines are replaced with PEX. Drain lines are not included (supply side only).

Materials

Line Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
PEX tubing (3/4” main lines)	150	ft	$1.25	$187.50
PEX tubing (1/2” branch lines)	300	ft	$0.85	$255.00
PEX manifold (hot and cold)	2	each	$85.00	$170.00
SharkBite/crimp fittings (assorted)	80	each	$3.50	$280.00
Ball valves (fixture shutoffs)	22	each	$8.00	$176.00
Main shut-off valve (3/4”)	1	each	$35.00	$35.00
Pipe hangers and straps	1	lot	$75.00	$75.00
Copper stub-outs (fixture connections)	22	each	$6.00	$132.00
Escutcheons and cover plates	22	each	$2.50	$55.00
Pipe insulation (hot lines)	150	ft	$0.45	$67.50
Miscellaneous (teflon, solder, flux)	1	lot	$50.00	$50.00
Materials Subtotal				$1,483.00

Labor

Task	Hours	Rate	Total
Shut down and cap existing system	2	$100.00	$200.00
Install manifolds at main	2	$100.00	$200.00
Run new PEX lines (attic/crawl space)	16	$100.00	$1,600.00
Connect fixtures (sinks, toilets, tubs)	8	$100.00	$800.00
Install shut-off valves	3	$100.00	$300.00
Pressure test system	1	$100.00	$100.00
Helper/apprentice labor	20	$45.00	$900.00
Labor Subtotal

Other Costs

Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Permit and inspections	1	each	$300.00	$300.00
Drywall access patches (allowance)	1	lot	$400.00	$400.00
Haul-off old pipe	1	lot	$100.00	$100.00
Other Subtotal				$800.00

Summary

	Amount
Materials	$1,483.00
Labor	$4,100.00
Other Costs	$800.00
Direct Cost Subtotal	$6,383.00
Overhead (15%)	$957.45
Profit (15%)	$1,101.07
Total Estimate	$8,441.52

Tips for This Template

• PEX manifold systems use more tubing but fewer fittings and are faster to install than trunk-and-branch systems. They also make future troubleshooting easier because each fixture has a dedicated home run.
• Always pressure test the new system before closing walls. Hold 80 PSI for 30 minutes minimum. Document the test with photos and a pressure gauge reading.
• Include drywall patching in your estimate or note it as an exclusion. Homeowners do not like surprise costs for wall repair after a repipe.
• If the existing drain lines are also galvanized or cast iron, price that work separately. Drain and supply are two different scopes with different costs.

---

Template 2: New Construction Rough-In Estimate

This template covers the plumbing rough-in for a 2,400 sq ft single-story home with 2.5 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, and 2 hose bibs. Includes underground (slab) and above-slab rough-in. Finish trim is listed separately.

Underground Rough-In

Line Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
PVC drain pipe (4” main)	60	ft	$3.50	$210.00
PVC drain pipe (3” branch)	80	ft	$2.75	$220.00
PVC drain pipe (2” branch)	60	ft	$1.75	$105.00
PVC vent pipe (2” and 3”)	100	ft	$2.00	$200.00
PVC fittings (assorted)	1	lot	$250.00	$250.00
Closet flanges	3	each	$12.00	$36.00
Cleanouts	4	each	$15.00	$60.00
Water service line (1” PE, 50 ft to meter)	50	ft	$2.50	$125.00
Underground labor (layout, dig, install, test)	24	hours	$100.00	$2,400.00
Helper labor (underground)	16	hours	$45.00	$720.00
Underground Subtotal				$4,326.00

Above-Slab Rough-In

Line Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
PEX tubing (3/4” mains)	120	ft	$1.25	$150.00
PEX tubing (1/2” branches)	250	ft	$0.85	$212.50
PEX fittings and manifold	1	lot	$320.00	$320.00
Copper stub-outs	20	each	$6.00	$120.00
Ball valves (fixture shutoffs)	20	each	$8.00	$160.00
Pipe hangers and straps	1	lot	$90.00	$90.00
Gas line (CSST, water heater)	30	ft	$5.50	$165.00
Gas valve and fittings	1	lot	$45.00	$45.00
Water heater (50-gal gas, installed)	1	each	$1,400.00	$1,400.00
Tub/shower valves (rough)	3	each	$85.00	$255.00
Above-slab labor (install, test, inspect)	20	hours	$100.00	$2,000.00
Helper labor (above-slab)	14	hours	$45.00	$630.00
Above-Slab Subtotal				$5,547.50

Finish Trim

Line Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Toilet sets (supply, wax ring, bolts)	3	each	$15.00	$45.00
Faucet connections (kitchen, 3 bath sinks)	4	each	$25.00	$100.00
Dishwasher connection	1	each	$35.00	$35.00
Washing machine box and valves	1	each	$45.00	$45.00
Hose bibs (frost-free)	2	each	$35.00	$70.00
Trim labor	8	hours	$100.00	$800.00
Finish Trim Subtotal				$1,095.00

Other Costs

Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Permit and inspections (3 inspections)	1	each	$450.00	$450.00
Material delivery	1	each	$75.00	$75.00
Other Subtotal				$525.00

Summary

	Amount
Underground Rough-In	$4,326.00
Above-Slab Rough-In	$5,547.50
Finish Trim	$1,095.00
Other Costs	$525.00
Direct Cost Subtotal	$11,493.50
Overhead (12%)	$1,379.22
Profit (12%)	$1,544.73
Total Estimate	$14,417.45

Tips for This Template

• New construction plumbing has three inspection stages: underground, rough-in, and final. Price your trips to the job accordingly. Three separate mobilizations cost time and fuel.
• Include the water heater in your plumbing bid unless the GC specifies otherwise. It is a plumbing fixture and you are responsible for the gas connection, water connections, and T&P drain.
• Gas line work requires a separate gas test (typically 15 PSI for 15 minutes). Some municipalities require a separate gas permit. Check your local code.
• Price underground and above-slab as separate sections. This helps when the GC needs partial billing tied to construction phases.

---

Template 3: Service Call Estimate

This template covers a common residential service call: replacing a leaking water heater (50-gallon gas) and fixing a dripping kitchen faucet.

Water Heater Replacement

Line Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
50-gallon gas water heater	1	each	$850.00	$850.00
Water heater pan	1	each	$25.00	$25.00
Flexible water connectors (pair)	1	set	$22.00	$22.00
Gas flex connector	1	each	$25.00	$25.00
T&P relief valve	1	each	$18.00	$18.00
Expansion tank	1	each	$45.00	$45.00
Vent pipe and fittings	1	lot	$35.00	$35.00
Pipe thread sealant and misc	1	lot	$10.00	$10.00
Labor (disconnect old, install new)	4	hours	$110.00	$440.00
Haul-off old unit	1	each	$50.00	$50.00
Water Heater Subtotal				$1,520.00

Kitchen Faucet Repair

Line Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Faucet cartridge/repair kit	1	each	$35.00	$35.00
Supply lines (if needed)	2	each	$8.00	$16.00
Labor (diagnose and repair)	1	hour	$110.00	$110.00
Faucet Repair Subtotal				$161.00

Other Costs

Item	Quantity	Unit	Unit Cost	Total
Permit (water heater)	1	each	$150.00	$150.00
Trip/truck charge	1	each	$75.00	$75.00
Other Subtotal				$225.00

Summary

	Amount
Water Heater Replacement	$1,520.00
Kitchen Faucet Repair	$161.00
Other Costs	$225.00
Direct Cost Subtotal	$1,906.00
Overhead (15%)	$285.90
Profit (18%)	$394.54
Total Estimate	$2,586.44

Tips for This Template

• Service calls should have a higher profit margin (18-20%) than new construction work. You are providing expertise, fast response, and maintaining a stocked truck.
• Always check local code for expansion tank requirements. Many municipalities now require them on water heater replacements.
• Include haul-off of the old water heater. It is a selling point and prevents the homeowner from asking you to “just leave it in the garage.”
• Bundle multiple repairs on one service call. The customer saves on the trip charge, and you earn more per visit. It is better for everyone.

---

Adjusting These Templates for Your Business

Calculate Your Burdened Labor Rate

Your burdened labor rate includes wages, payroll taxes (7.65% FICA), workers comp (8-15% for plumbing), health insurance, vacation, and truck allowance. A plumber making $35/hour in wages might cost you $48-55/hour fully burdened. Know this number because it is the foundation of every estimate you write.

Set Your Service Rates

Most plumbing companies charge $95-150/hour for service work. Your rate needs to cover your burdened labor cost plus overhead and profit. If you are charging less than $90/hour, run the numbers because you are probably not making money after overhead.

Build a Flat-Rate Price Book

For common service calls (faucet replacement, toilet install, garbage disposal, water heater), create flat-rate prices that you can quote on the spot. This speeds up your sales process and gives the customer a clear number. Base your flat rates on your detailed templates, then round up to the nearest $25 or $50.

Track Materials Closely

Plumbing materials are a smaller percentage of total cost compared to trades like concrete or roofing, but fitting waste and misc items add up. Track what you actually use on 10 jobs and compare it to what you estimated. Most plumbers find they underestimate fittings by 15-20%.

Go Digital

Writing estimates on carbon-copy forms worked 20 years ago, but customers expect professional-looking digital estimates now. Projul’s estimating tools let you build and send plumbing estimates from your phone, convert approved estimates to work orders, and track everything in one place. Schedule a demo to see how it works for plumbing contractors.

---

Common Mistakes That Cost Plumbers Money on Estimates

Not charging for diagnostic time. Finding a slab leak or tracing a intermittent drip takes real skill. If you include diagnostic time for free, you are giving away your most valuable expertise. Charge a diagnostic fee and credit it toward the repair.

Underestimating fittings. Plumbers focus on pipe footage and forget that every turn, tee, and transition needs a fitting. On a repipe with 80 fittings at $3.50 each, that is $280 in materials you might miss.

Ignoring access costs. Running PEX through a finished wall takes three times longer than running it through an open attic. If your estimate does not account for access difficulty, your labor hours will be wrong.

Forgetting the permit. Water heater replacements require permits in most cities. Repipes always do. The permit fee is $150-450, and the inspection trips cost you 2-4 hours of labor. Price both into your estimate.

Not including drywall or concrete repair. If you cut holes in walls or saw through a slab, someone has to fix it. Either include the repair in your price or clearly exclude it in writing. Ambiguity here leads to arguments.

---

What Every Plumbing Estimate Needs Beyond the Numbers

• Scope of work. “Replace all galvanized supply lines with PEX using manifold system. Connect 11 fixtures. Pressure test to 80 PSI.”
• Access method. “Access through attic and crawl space. No slab cuts required.”
• Fixture list. Name every fixture being connected or repaired.
• Timeline. “Repipe: 2-3 days. Water shut-off required during work hours only.”
• Payment terms. “50% deposit at scheduling, 50% at completion and successful pressure test.” Use invoicing software to send professional invoices tied to the original estimate.
• Warranty. “1-year workmanship warranty. Manufacturer warranties on all fixtures and equipment.”
• Exclusions. “Does not include drywall repair, painting, fixture replacement (using existing fixtures), or drain line work.”
• License info. Include your plumbing license number. Customers expect it, and some states require it on estimates.

---

Residential vs Commercial Plumbing Estimates

Residential and commercial plumbing estimates look different in almost every way. Here is what changes when you move from houses to commercial buildings.

Pipe sizes and materials. Residential work is mostly 1/2” and 3/4” PEX for supply, 2”-4” PVC for drain. Commercial jobs use 1” to 4” copper or PEX for supply and 4”-6” cast iron or PVC for drain. Larger pipe means higher material costs and longer installation times.

Fixture counts and types. A house might have 10-12 fixtures. A restaurant or office building can have 30-50+ fixture units including commercial sinks, floor drains, grease interceptors, and backflow prevention devices that residential plumbers rarely touch.

Code and inspection requirements. Commercial plumbing follows the IPC or UPC with additional local amendments. Expect more inspections, stricter documentation, and requirements like fire suppression tie-ins. Some commercial jobs require fire sprinkler coordination with the plumbing scope.

Pricing structure. Residential work is usually bid per job with a simple scope. Commercial work often requires detailed budgets broken into phases, with progress billing tied to a construction schedule. You may also need to submit change orders through a formal process.

Bonding and insurance. Commercial jobs over $25,000-50,000 usually require a performance bond (1-3% of contract value) and higher insurance limits. Factor these costs into your overhead.

If you are transitioning from residential to commercial plumbing, start with smaller tenant improvement jobs before bidding ground-up commercial construction. The learning curve is steep but the margins can be worth it.

---

Related Estimate Templates

Need templates for other trades or job types? Here are the most relevant ones for plumbing contractors:

• Bathroom Remodel Estimate Templates - Full bath renovation pricing with fixtures, tile, and plumbing
• Kitchen Remodel Estimate Templates - Kitchen renovation bids including plumbing rough-in
• HVAC Estimate Templates - Mechanical estimates for combo plumbing/HVAC shops
• Concrete Estimate Templates - Slab and foundation pricing for new construction coordination
• Drywall Estimate Templates - Wall repair pricing to bundle with repipe work
• Electrical Estimate Templates - Coordinate MEP pricing on commercial jobs
• General Contractor Estimate Templates - Full project estimate formats for GC-managed jobs
• Construction Contract Templates - Contract language to pair with your estimates
• Construction Budget Templates - Job costing and budget tracking for larger projects
• Construction Change Order Templates - Handle scope changes without losing money

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Check the FAQ section above for answers to common questions about plumber hourly rates, repipe estimation, flat-rate vs. time-and-materials, profit margins, and underground plumbing pricing.

---

Start Sending Better Estimates Today

These templates give you a solid starting point for repipes, new construction rough-ins, and service calls. Adjust the costs for your market, add your company branding, and start sending estimates that win more work.

If you are done with handwritten estimates and spreadsheet chaos, Projul’s estimating features let you build, send, and track plumbing estimates from your phone. No per-user fees. Built for plumbing contractors. Schedule a live demo and see the difference.

---

📥 Get Your Free Estimate Templates

Download Projul’s free construction estimate templates - built by contractors, for contractors. Create professional estimates in minutes and win more jobs.

Download Free Templates →

---

DISCLAIMER: We make no warranty of accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of the information presented on this website. Posts are subject to change without notice and cannot be considered financial advice.