Field notes for
the business side.
Plain-English guides for UK trades and sole traders on pricing, extras, paperwork and getting paid. Checked against GOV.UK and Citizens Advice, written for people who’d rather be on the tools.
Quote or estimate? What your price actually promises
A quote is a promise, an estimate is a best guess. Here’s what that means when the job changes, what to put on every quote, and the 14-day rule that catches a lot of trades out.
Read the guideExtra work on site: get the yes before you pick up the tools
A rotten joist, a seized valve, a socket that isn’t where the drawing said. Jobs grow, and that’s normal. Arguments about the bill aren’t. Here’s how to agree extra work in about two minutes.
Read the guideGetting paid on time: a sole trader’s playbook
Late payment looks like an admin problem and behaves like a cash-flow one. Deposits, clear terms, a reminder rhythm that stays friendly, and the interest the law lets you charge business clients.
Read the guide