What a deposit should achieve
A deposit can reserve capacity, cover ordered materials and reduce the business’s early funding exposure. It should be connected to genuine commitments and explained clearly.
Tie stages to understandable progress
Useful stages correspond to visible or verifiable points such as mobilisation, materials ordered, first fix, installation, completion of an area or practical completion. Avoid vague dates that do not match how value is created.
Run three checks
- Do the scheduled percentages or amounts equal the total quote?
- Does the deposit cover likely early materials, hire and subcontractor commitments?
- At any point, how far below zero could the job’s cash position fall?
Price variations before doing them
Where scope changes, record the additional work, price and effect on programme, then agree it before proceeding where practical. Otherwise a profitable base quote can be diluted by a stream of unpriced extras.
Use suitable terms for the job
Consumer contracts, cancellation rights, deposits and payment terms can have legal consequences. Use clear fair wording and obtain professional advice for major, unusual or disputed work.
Use your own figures
The guide explains the decision. The calculator shows what that decision does to a real job.
Check a job now