Irrigation installers quote before almost every install, zone addition, and major repair. Homeowners often collect two or three bids and compare the zone count, brand of components, backflow and controller choices, and warranty, so a clear written scope matters more than the lowest number.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Rotors, sprays, and drip serve different areas. Writing down what is included prevents arguments about a missed corner or flower bed.
PVC versus poly pipe and 1 inch versus 1.25 inch mainline change cost and performance, and clients should know what goes in the ground.
Naming valves, heads, controller, and backflow device lets clients compare bids fairly and avoids substitution disputes.
If the design depends on a certain flow or pressure, state it. Low pressure or an undersized meter can change the number of zones per valve.
State who pulls the permit and who pays for it, and note the time needed for a 811 locate before digging.
Say whether trenches will be raked and seeded, sod replaced, or left for the client. Lawn repair is a common complaint.
Rock, buried debris, existing unmarked lines, and private utilities not located by 811 should be listed with how added work will be priced.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| New residential install (complete system) | per zone | $500-900 |
| Add a zone to an existing system | per zone | $350-700 |
| Service call / repair labor | per hour | $75-125 |
| Trip charge or diagnostic minimum | flat fee | $50-95 |
| Spring start-up or fall blowout | flat fee per visit | $75-175 |
| Backflow preventer install (residential) | each | $250-600 |
| Smart controller install | each | $200-450 plus unit cost |
| Drip irrigation zone for beds | per zone | $250-600 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Walk the property, note pressure at the hose bib, and sketch zones. A quote based on a real layout is more accurate than a rule-of-thumb per-zone number, and it shows the client you did the work.
Present a base system, a version with a smart controller and rain sensor, and one with drip beds added. Clients often choose the middle tier when it is laid out side by side.
Pipe, fittings, and valve prices move. Put a validity period of 15 to 30 days on the quote and state that pricing may change after that.
List what an added zone, extra head, or hour of rock work costs. Clients accept change orders more easily when they saw the rate up front.
Free estimates are common for standard residential installs. For complex designs, commercial plans, or large properties, many installers charge a design fee and credit it toward the job if the client signs.
Fifteen to 30 days is typical. Material costs and your schedule can change, so put an expiration date on the quote.
Not necessarily. Say clearly whether your number is a fixed price or an estimate that can change with conditions. A fixed bid with listed exclusions and unit prices for extras is the cleanest approach.
Inspect what you can and write down which parts you are reusing. State that you are not warranting existing pipe, valves, or heads, and quote repair of hidden problems as extra work.
Use the Irrigation Installer invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Irrigation Installer invoice template