Free Template: Concrete Proposal Example & Writing Guide

There’s a lot to do in starting and running a business. Learning how to write a professional proposal for a concrete project is probably near the top of your to-do list. We’ve got you covered with a concrete bid proposal template to get you started. 

But there are additional tools that go beyond templates in helping you run all aspects of your business more efficiently. Concrete construction software lets you run your business from a single hub and from anywhere because it offers everything from lead nurturing to project management and making it easy to get paid. 

Explore our other templates for concrete contractors with a free trial of Houzz Pro.

What is a concrete proposal form?

A concrete proposal is the document that lays out the project plan, costs, timeline and more to a potential client. It is the basis for which customers will decide whether or not to hire your company to do the work they are seeking. Unlike an estimate, which is often an educated guess of the cost of a project, a proposal offers up the exact cost of what you expect to charge for the project. It is also more detailed than a quote or a bid because it often includes more information about your company, the services it offers and examples of work completed.

Why are concrete proposals important?

A well-presented concrete proposal can help you win projects because it gives potential clients a clear idea of what their space will look like after completion, and the costs behind it.  It can be a persuasive tool in convincing customers why they should entrust you with the project. Proposals are also a place where you can stand out from competitors by showing the services your business offers and what makes you different from the rest. The clarity provided by a proposal also can help your project to run more smoothly throughout.

When do you send a concrete proposal?

A concrete proposal is presented before any work begins and may be the first document you present to a client, or a follow up to an initial estimate, which may suffice for smaller jobs. Here are some scenarios when contractors send a proposal:

• The client liked the first estimate, and now is seeking a more detailed proposal.
• A customer has narrowed down their choices to a handful of contractors and is seeking a proposal from each to help them make their final decision.
• A contractor decides to go the extra mile to submit a proposal instead of an estimate to increase the chances that their company will win a particular project.

What should be included in a concrete proposal template?

There are some basic elements that should be included in every concrete proposal, but you may add some others depending on the project and circumstances. Here are some common details to cover in your proposal:

• Cover Letter First impressions count and this is the first page your clients will read. Address it to your client, and introduce yourself and your company. Then, briefly explain an overview of what is included in the proposal. Branding it with your company logo and contact information gives the cover letter a professional appearance.
• About Us This section provides a more detailed snapshot of your company and the services it offers. Note any recognitions your company has won, how long you have been working in the field, the regions you serve and other pertinent information.
• Our Team List your team members with a brief bio of your major players. This helps clients see the depth of your company’s experience, and also put faces to the names.
• Scope of Work This is the bulk of the proposal because it lays out with words exactly what is being planned for the site, and the services you will offer. Include details to bring the vision to life and to provide clarity on what work is included in the proposal.
•  Labor Note the labor that will be needed to do the work, including any subcontractors or other tradespeople.
•  Equipment Provide details on what type of equipment will be needed and the costs.
• Schedule This details the expected start and end dates for the project as well as any targeted milestones of stages of work.
• Licenses & Certifications This is a place to highlight the licenses and certifications you and your team members have earned. This can help you rise above your competition and reassure your clients.
• Cost & Payment Terms Detail all the costs of materials, labor and other expenses to provide a final cost. Add the payment terms, any upfront deposit requirements and penalties for late payments. 
• Acceptance & Signatures End the proposal with a place for all parties to sign and date the document.

Optional Sections to Include in a Concrete Proposal

Here are some additional sections you may want to include in your proposal to help you win more jobs:

• Testimonials Show off your five-star reviews from past clients. This builds credibility, and impresses your clients. If possible, highlight past projects similar to what they are seeking. Also list any awards and recognitions you’ve received for quality work and customer service.
• Existing Conditions Note the existing conditions of the site and any actions that need to be taken to correct any poor conditions, who is responsible, and costs.
• Exclusions In some cases, you may want to note services and work that is not covered in the proposal. This can provide clarity and avoid disagreements later.
• Visuals Adding photographs, diagrams and other visuals can make your work come alive. Include high quality before and after photographs in your portfolio.
• Contract Save time and make it convenient to finalize the project by including a contract in the proposal. 

How to Create a Concrete Proposal Form Step-by-Step

With the list of what should be included in hand, you can now get started putting together your proposal. Here’s a guide for doing so:

• Review Plans Conduct a discovery call with clients to learn the details of the project, and review any plans you have regarding the work. 
• Visit the Site Walk the project site with the client to ensure that you have a full understanding of their expectations and the extent of the work. This also helps in knowing the current condition of the site and what challenges it presents.  
• Estimate Costs Know the exact costs of the materials, labor and other expenses associated with the project before adding them to the proposal. Check with suppliers, subcontractors and others to gain clear estimates on availability, unit costs, and hourly rates.  Add in your overhead and profit margins.
• Choose a Proposal Template The job of writing a proposal is easier when you have a concrete proposal template to guide you. Other tools such as contractor software makes the job even more efficient. When choosing a template, make sure it is downloadable and fully customizable to your business and project needs.
• Write Your Scope of Work Gather the plans and your notes, and write up the scope of the work. Make sure you cover everything from site preparation, project work and site clean up. Include all aspects of the work being performed and where. 
• Outline Schedule After reviewing the plans, and consultation with your subcontractors and suppliers, write up the schedule from start to finish. Include target dates throughout the life of the project. A timeline gives comfort and clarity to clients and helps you set your goals. Account for possible delays such as inclement weather. 
• Details Costs Spell out all the costs in the document with as much detail as possible of the type and quality of materials to be used, and unit price. Also provide details of the labor costs involved in the project such as type of labor and hourly rates. Help the client clearly see the costs behind the work involved.
• Add Payment Terms To protect your business, it is often a good idea to seek an initial down payment from clients before the work begins. Note the deposit amount in the payment terms and list when payments are due throughout the life of the project. Also, include any fees for late payments or discounts for early ones. 
• Write Cover Letter Don’t forget to add a cover letter to make a strong first impression. This can be one page. Address it to the client, introduce your company and the services it offers, refer to the project the proposal is outlining, and end it with your signature.
• Seek a Second Opinion Once your proposal is written, ask someone you trust to review it for any errors or omissions. 
• Review & Send Give your proposal one last look and send it to your clients. 
• Obtain Signatures The proposal is done, but your proposal work is not completed until your clients have approved and signed off.

Alternatives to concrete job proposal templates

With today’s sophisticated technology, tools are available that are more advanced than downloadable templates. Houzz Pro concrete contractor software provides takeoff features to automate complex calculations. It helps you collaborate with your team from a single place with task assignments and time and expense tracking. It’s everything you need, under one roof–from finding leads to getting paid. 

Learn how concrete contractor software can help you run all aspects of your business more efficiently.

Final Tips for How to Write a Concrete Proposal

• Prioritize Clarity Proposals should be comprehensive, but they do not have to be complicated. Write them in a readable way, avoiding jargon and unnecessary details. Organize the proposal with a clear structure that makes it intuitive for the clients to follow and find sections. This ensures that the details in your proposal are easily understood by your clients and everyone is on the same page.
• Be Visually Appealing Photographs, drawings, logos and other visuals enhance the appeal  and professional nature of your proposal. Adding them throughout your proposal can help you stand out from your competitors. Don’t forget to make the font easy to read.
• Customize for Each Client Write the proposal so the client feels like it is being written specifically for them and their project. Guide your clients through the proposal phase so that they know what to expect and how to have their questions answered. This signals that your business will be as responsive throughout the project.
• Emphasize Customer Service, Safety Besides highlighting your high quality work, skills and experience in the concrete construction business, provide details on the values, services and commitment to your clients. Also, emphasize ways you prioritize safety on the job. 
• Note Additional Services Offered Anticipate future projects with this client, by noting other services you offer that are relevant to their needs. 
• Submit On Time Speed wins jobs, especially if your competitors submit their proposal late. Send your proposal on time, or early to demonstrate the reliability of your company.
• Double Check Data Review your costs estimates more than once to avoid going back, and making changes, or worse yet, realizing too late that the numbers are off.

Conclusion

Providing professional and appealing concrete proposals to your potential customers can help you win jobs and stand above your competitors. This guide can help you create a proposal that is comprehensive, effective and makes it easy for your clients to envision what the finished project will look like. 

Sign up for a free trial of Houzz Pro's concrete contractor takeoff software and explore our takeoff, estimate and proposal features. Learn more about growing your concrete contractor business and How to Estimate Concrete Work.