Mason · Quotes and invoices
Quote software for masons
Slabs, walls, openings: masonry jobs call for a detailed quote, with a deposit and a signature before you buy materials.
A sample masonry quote
| Service | Qty | Unit price excl. VAT | Total excl. VAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundations and strip footing | 12 lin. m | €95.00 | €1,140.00 |
| Wall construction in 20 cm concrete blocks | 25 m² | €60.00 | €1,500.00 |
| Precast concrete lintel | 2 unit | €85.00 | €170.00 |
| Exterior render | 25 m² | €38.00 | €950.00 |
VAT 10%: €376.00
Total incl. VAT: €4,136.00
Example for guidance only: prices and VAT rates vary depending on your region, suppliers and the job.
How to prepare a masonry quote
To price a masonry quote, break the job into items that follow the order of work: earthworks and foundations, wall construction, openings, finishing. For each item, choose a clear unit: linear meter for a strip footing, square meter for a wall or render, unit for a lintel. State the quantity and unit price. Separate materials (concrete blocks, cement, steel, ready-mix concrete) from labor. Add any equipment rental (concrete mixer, scaffolding, mini excavator), rubble removal and travel costs. For unknowns, such as harder ground than expected, include an optional line rather than a hidden margin.
In France, for masonry work covered by the ten-year warranty (garantie décennale), state your insurer's name and your policy's geographic coverage on your quotes and invoices. The VAT rate depends on the job. The 10% rate may apply, under conditions, to improvement or maintenance work in a home completed more than two years ago. Otherwise, the 20% rate applies. If you are a micro-entrepreneur exempt from VAT, add the mention « TVA non applicable, art. 293 B du CGI » (VAT not applicable, art. 293 B of the French Tax Code). Also specify site access, the condition of existing structures and what remains the client's responsibility. Attach photos taken before the work.
With Ecomely, you prepare the quote from your phone or computer, using your usual line items. Zély, the AI Assistant, can draft it from your description of the job. You then check quantities and prices before sending. The client signs the quote online, so you can order materials once you have their approval. The signed quote becomes an invoice in one click. The client can pay by card, and automatic reminders handle outstanding invoices. Your clients and documents stay in one place, making it easy to find an old job.
What Ecomely does for masons
- Fill in quotes from your phone, with your saved services and prices.
- Clients sign online from a simple link.
- Turn a quote into an invoice in one click, with card payment and reminders.
- Clients, documents and emails all in one place.
Trade vocabulary
- Strip footing (semelle filante)
- A strip of reinforced concrete that a wall sits on.
- Tie beam (chaînage)
- Reinforcement that runs around the walls to bind them together.
- Lintel (linteau)
- A beam that supports the wall above a door or window.
- Ten-year warranty (garantie décennale)
- Mandatory ten-year insurance in France covering structural work.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a quote for a small wall repair?
In France, for troubleshooting, repair or maintenance work on buildings, a quote is mandatory above €150 including VAT. Below that amount, or for construction work, a written, signed quote is still recommended. It fixes the price and scope of work, which limits disputes. In Ecomely, a short quote takes moments to prepare and the client signs it online.
How do I price foundations when I don't yet know the soil type?
Price the foundations on a clear assumption, such as a given depth, and write that assumption on the quote. Add an optional line for possible extra depth or additional concrete volume, with its unit price. If the ground holds a surprise, the client already knows what may change. You can then have them sign an additional quote before continuing.
When can I apply 10% VAT on a masonry job?
In France, the 10% rate may apply, under conditions, to improvement, fit-out or maintenance work carried out in a home completed more than two years ago. New construction does not meet these conditions and falls under the 20% rate. If you are unsure about a specific job, check with your accountant before sending the quote. Always state the rate applied on every quote.
Should I ask for a deposit before buying materials?
It is common practice in masonry, since materials make up a large share of the job. State clearly in the quote's terms the deposit amount and when it must be paid. Wait for the quote to be signed online before placing your order. That way, you keep a record of the client's agreement on the price and payment terms.
The rules mentioned on this page (VAT, required quote details, insurance) are those that apply in France.