Options, Estimates & Authorization

Field practices for clear scopes, legitimate service options, change authorization, price presentation, and accurate handoff to billing.

TIP 01

A good estimate states what condition will be corrected or improved, not only the part being installed.

TIP 02

Options should vary by scope, durability, warranty, efficiency, convenience, or risk reduction—not artificial pressure.

TIP 03

Customers should understand what has been learned and what they are approving next.

TIP 04

Unexpected conditions require a revised scope and customer decision, not a surprise invoice.

TIP 05

Unclear responsibility can delay work and create customer disputes.

TIP 06

Labor units, material counts, equipment sizes, access needs, and disposal should match the actual job condition.

TIP 07

The customer should know what is due, when it is due, and what event triggers the next payment.

TIP 08

Memberships, monitoring, maintenance, storage, or ongoing service should be labeled clearly.

TIP 09

An estimate sent to the wrong address or person is not a completed handoff.

TIP 10

Installers and service technicians need the selected option, site conditions, materials, exclusions, and customer commitments.